April 23, 2024 — A group of Marist English majors and minors traveled to St. Louis earlier this month to showcase their academic and creative work at the annual Sigma Tau Delta Convention. At the conference, eight members of Marist’s Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society chapter had their creative submissions accepted.

The students participated in panel presentations, professional discussions, author readings, session chairing, networking, and interactions with English majors nationwide. Approximately 900 attendees from over 100 schools attended the convention; having eight students accepted to present underscores the academic caliber of Marist students and their contributions to the field.

Sara Rabinowitz '24 and Brooke Millard '24, won awards at the convention, with Sara securing first place and Brooke third place in the Original Poetry category.

Brooke Millard (left) Sara Rabinowitz (right). Photos courtesy of Dr. Patricia Tarantello.

“I was inspired to pursue a minor in creative writing and join Sigma Tau Delta after taking Dr. Leigh Graham's creative writing workshop,” said Brooke. “With Dr. Patricia Tarantello's guidance, I submitted my poetry to the conference, leading to a newfound confidence in my work and a rewarding experience in St. Louis.”

The convention offers Marist students a valuable opportunity to engage in academic fellowship and community with talented English majors and minors nationwide, while gaining insights into professionalism.

“Attendees can showcase their work, connect with fellow creative minds, network with professors, and participate in informative sessions covering topics such as applying to graduate school or submitting writing for publication,” said Dr. Tarantello, advisor to Sigma Tau Delta and Director of First Year Seminar. “As an advisor, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative impact this convention can have on students over the years.”

Kyle Esoian with Dr. Tarantello (left). Cassandra Arencibia presenting (right). Photos courtesy of Dr. Patricia Tarantello.

“This was the second Sigma Tau Delta convention that I've attended, and I had a fantastic experience once again,” said Lorah Murphy '24. “It was an honor to present with so many other great scholars and to share this collection I put months of work into. I highly recommend the experience to other English students, and I am grateful for the support of the School of Liberal Arts and Academic Affairs."

The Marist students who made it to St. Louis also displayed their work here on campus during CURSCA last week.

See our CURSCA overview here.