5 days ago
SSU student-led magazine named best in the nation
SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) – The student-led literary Magazine at Savannah State University (SSU), called Estuary, won first place in the 2025 Association of Writers and Writing Programs (AWP) Prize for undergraduate literary magazines.
Estuary was chosen out of hundreds of entries by AWP. The prize is awarded annually to one outstanding, undergraduate-led journal and two runners-up. It celebrates the work of undergraduate student writers and editors, including exceptional content, cohesive design, and innovation.
Ona Anosike, the founder and chief editor of the Tonic, a literary journal associated with Lesley University, served as the 2025 AWP judge.
'Estuary from Savannah State University is a bold and beautifully produced journal that reflects a campus community deeply invested in the literary arts,' said Anosike. 'The themes of resilience and liberation thread through its pages, not just in the work itself, but in the spirit behind it. From its sharp writing to its strong visual design, the journal feels alive with voice and vision. It's clear that this is more than a publication; it's a platform for connection, expression, and creative power.'
Faculty co-advisors Dr. Chad Faries, associate professor of English, and Kelly Evans, instructor of English, provided editorial guidance and support. Dr. Faries also serves as senior editor for Estuary.
'I want to express my gratitude to our incredible president, Nyree Wright, for her visionary leadership over the past two years,' said Faries. He also acknowledged the support of Shed Dawson, director of Career Services and the Leadership Development Center, and Bonita Bradley, dean of students.
'Our co-advisor Kelly Evans and former advisor Elizabeth Kaiser played crucial roles in revitalizing the organization, helping to cultivate a culture of creativity on campus,' Faries added. 'We also extend thanks to Dr. Nicholas Silberg, chair of the Department of Visual and Performing Arts, for his continued support.'
In addition to earning national recognition for Volume 16, Estuary also celebrated outstanding student work through its guest submission contest. Members of the Estuary editorial team and the Estuary Creative Writing Club reviewed submissions in both prose and poetry.
Prose Category Winners:
Samantha Thompson – Best Prose, College of Education
Macayla Moody – Best Prose, College of Sciences and Technology
Keyonna A. Primus – Best Overall, College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
Poetry Category Winners:
Kyndall Jackson – Best Poem, College of Education
Madeleine Nolan – Best Poem, College of Business Administration
Victoria Harris – Overall Winner, College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
Macayla Moody – Best Poem, College of Sciences and Technology
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