Courtney Zoffness mentors and teaches at the renowned Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference
September 2025 – Drew University Associate Professor of English and Director of Creative Writing Courtney Zoffness spent part of her summer as a fellow at the 100th annual Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference.
Founded in 1926 and conceived of by poet Robert Frost, the conference brings together more than 200 aspiring writers each year near Middlebury, Vermont. Participants and fellows work under esteemed writers, including Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winners, MacArthur Fellows, and U.S. Poets Laureate.
The New Yorker calls it “the oldest and most prestigious writing conference in the country.”
As a Nonfiction Fellow, Zoffness mentored a group of accomplished aspiring authors, gave a public reading from her in-progress new book, led a craft talk, and co-taught a workshop with writer, poet, and essayist Elisa Gabbert.
“I also had my mind blown and my heart broken a dozen times as an audience member,” said Zoffness of the 10-day gathering.
For Zoffness, the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference was a time to both lead and reflect.
“It’s easy to despair at a time of massive defunding of the arts,” said Zoffness. “I felt heartened to be in community with those who appreciate the necessity of literature, and who are committed to doing this beautiful work.”
