A common thread runs through my professional career: I help people tell their stories. I have written grants to support a variety of arts programming, helped choose stories to showcase in a nationally renowned radio series, and advocated for the work of contemporary American classical composers.

Since 2015 I have taught and coached writing, both personal and professional, individually and in workshops throughout the Triangle. I love seeing my students land upon the perfect word, try something new on the page, or begin writing after a long absence– seeing a look that is a mix of wonder and empowerment after expressing themselves clearly.

I have an MFA in Nonfiction Creative Writing from The New School in New York City. I also hold a degree in English from Duke University and a certificate from the Publishing Institute at the University of Denver. In 2019 I was a finalist in the Rose Post Creative Nonfiction Contest and In 2022 I was awarded the Ella Pratt Emerging Artists Grant from the Durham Arts Council.

I teach and coach writing because I believe we need each other’s stories now more than ever, to encourage empathy and understanding and to appreciate our shared humanity. I look forward to working with you.

I offer:

• Creative Writing Workshops for adults – subjects include but are not limited to: creative nonfiction, personal essay, memoir, and art criticism. I have taught at the North Carolina Writers’ Network, Duke University’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), the Durham County Library and the Seymour Center in Chapel Hill.  I am available to visit colleges, libraries, civic centers or book clubs and can tailor classes to fit your needs.

• Private Writing Coaching for adults

• Other writing services

I also run an interview series on my website called “Creatives in Conversation” that features local artists of every medium discussing their creative process.

Learn more at AllisonKirkland.com