Parkersburg, W.Va. (Feb. 24, 2022) – As WVU Parkersburg’s literary magazine, The Poorhouse Rag serves as a written review for artists and writers to submit poetry, flash fiction, fiction, creative nonfiction, children’s stories and artwork. Artists and writers can use their voices to bring awareness to the broad and varied themes and topics of social justice.

This year, The Poorhouse Rag is asking for submitted pieces to address the college’s emphasis on social justice for all, including, but not limited to, race, poverty, religion, gender, age, social status, sexuality, disability, economics, and any topic the writer or artist wishes to speak up about.

The Poorhouse Rag is led by the WVU Parkersburg Editorial Collective, including Dr. Sandra Kolankiewicz, Dr. Lauri Reidmiller, Danielle Kelly, Joyce Stover, Dr. Alicia Matheny Beeson, and Dr. Woody Wilson. The Editorial Collective selects the pieces featured in the magazine; however, the goal is to transition into a student-led process.

“Students have the opportunity to practice getting a manuscript or artwork ready for submission, of knowing an editor has read or seen their work, and of seeing their efforts in print with other authors or, if they are visual artists, in a real show,” Dr. Kolankiewicz said. “Family members and friends are so proud of their published friends and family members too! Also, authors realize they are part of a community– and can come together in artistic expression.”

All works will be considered for a $50 prize in each genre as well as the Foundation Prize for best cover art, and the President’s Prize for best overall art or literary work.

“It was quite an honor and privilege to win the Foundation Prize last year,” said WVU Parkersburg alumni Kimberly Matheny. “I was congratulated over and over by Dr. Reidmiller and my fellow art students. They made me feel so proud to represent the college on the behalf of The Poorhouse Rag.”

To submit a piece of writing or artwork to The Poorhouse Rag, or to view submission guidelines, visit wvup.edu/poorhouserag. Submissions are open to WVU Parkersburg students, faculty, staff, alumni, and their family members. The deadline for submissions is June 1, 2022, and there is no fee to enter.