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Jon Volkmer                                                                               

I grew up in Nebraska City, NE.  My high school years were spent at Precious Blood Seminary in Liberty, MO.  I
received a BA from the University of Colorado, Denver, an MA in Creative Writing from the University of Denver,
and a PhD in English from the University of Nebraska.   

I joined Ursinus College in 1987, and have been directing its undergraduate creative writing program ever since. 
My little book, The Fiction Workshop Companion, won a small loyal following over the ten yeas it was in print.  My
focus in recent years has shifted in recent years from fiction to nonfiction--mainly travel writing--and poetry.  My
publications, recognitions, and conference presentations may are listed on a separate page.  I have posted some
selected writings on this site for anyone who cares to read them.

As a teacher, I have varied interests.  I enjoy teaching in Ursinus' renowned freshman seminar.  I lead creative
writing workshops in fiction, poetry and travel writing.  I teach travel literature, Italian literature in translation,
James Joyce, and other lit classes.  

My scholarly interests these days are mainly directed toward travel literature.  I was a founding member of the
International Society for Travel Writing (ISTW) and served on its first steering committee.  I've presented papers on
travel literature at several conferences, and my essay, "Towards a Definition of Travel Writing," appears in the text
book Travel Writing (Leromi Publishing). 

 

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