English Students Shine at Sigma Tau Delta Convention: A Celebration of Literature and Scholarship

In a showcase of literary talent and academic prowess, several students from the University attended the Sigma Tau Delta Centennial Convention. Held in St. Louis, MO, the event saw presentations that ranged from poetry collections, critical essays, and published novels, reflecting the diverse interests and skills of those who are part of the honor society. Dr. Glen Brewster, Professor and Chair of the University's English Department in addition to being the former president of the national honor society, was a lead organizer for the event, and arranged for Pulitzer Prize-winning author Carl Philips to read and meet with students. 

Dr. Sophia Sarigianides, Professor of English at Westfield State and the English Education Coordinator, served as one of the keynote speakers for the convention and discussed her work on anti-racism pedagogy in the classroom. Her presentations were well-received and focused on how educators can expand on anti-racist discussions within the classroom, but also in their own craft as well.

Among the standout presenters were Alexis Crafts, Sam Grunden, Chloe Sanfacon, Victoria Nesmelova, and Julia Robak. They each presented their own poetry and essays in tandem, with Crafts, who delved into the theme of relationships and identity with her poetry collection, titled “Wintertide.” Grunden also offered an introspective piece, titled “Homesick,” from his original poetry collection, which explored the themes of growth and maturation. Sanfacon engaged the audience with her critical essay "Tonal Variety in Milton's Paradise Lost" as part of her academic engagement with early modern explorations.

Meanwhile, Victoria Nesmelova brought a fresh perspective with her essay "Catharsis by Storytelling in Breakfast of Champions," underlining the theme of release, revolution, and change, while Robak contributed to the dialogue with her essay "Women's Education: Wollstonecraft and Woolf," adding insights to literary reflections on gender.

In addition to these enlightening presentations, Crafts also led a discussion on "Vampires in Pop Culture" during the Research in the Round session, showcasing a breadth of knowledge and interests within the University’s chapter. The dedication of these students went beyond their presentations, as they also contributed significantly to the logistics of the event, working diligently at the registration table and assisting with various tasks. Their efforts did not go unnoticed, as the chapter received complimentary hotel accommodations as a token of appreciation for their role as a "host" chapter.

Reflecting on the experience, Crafts, the chapter's Vice President, expressed her gratitude, saying, "This was my second year attending the Sigma Tau Delta Convention. I'm glad I got the opportunity to present a portion of my poetry chapbook and hear many other great speakers present their work. I got to meet various English majors from all over the country when helping with registration and during break-out sessions. It's an amazing opportunity, I'd recommend any student who has the chance to attend to take advantage and present their work.”

"I had a great time at the convention,” Roy added. “There were so many interesting panels and fun things to do. It was amazing to be part of something as big as this, and I can't wait to come back next year.”

Robak agreed with those sentiments, calling the experience “eye-opening.” “I came back with new ideas, insights, and perspectives regarding the subject of English,” she said. “I am very grateful for this opportunity that I got to share with my peers. This trip will certainly be one of the highlights of my college career at Westfield State.” 

The convention not only provided a platform for our students to showcase their academic achievements but also fostered connections and learning opportunities that will undoubtedly shape their future in the world of literature and academia.