SUCCESS PANEL AT THE MADISON WRITER'S INSTITUTE

April 11-14 will be the 24th Annual Madison Writer’s Institute; I’ve been attending since 1997.  For the last three years one feature has been to have a “Success Panel” during the luncheon on the first day of the conference.

I’ve wanted to be on the success panel since it began because I’ve written a novel, captured a contract with a traditional publisher and published freelance articles in a variety of media.  Last year even two of my teachers asked why I wasn’t on the Success Panel, I didn’t have an answer.

I e-mailed the Director of the Institute, Laurie Sheer, and asked how to participate on the panel.  I learned there were seven criteria and to be selected a person needed to meet two of the seven.   It was a mystery how attendees learned of this process (a well kept secret?).  I responded, I met four of the seven criteria.  Then I heard nothing for two months.  I sent a follow-up e-mail.  Laurie wasn’t ready to make decisions yet. 

Last week, just a week before the conference, I received an e-mail that I had been selected for the Success Panel.  At last.  I responded with a thank you and asked what the format would be.  Laurie was still deciding on the format and would be in touch.

Last week I received at e-mail with the list of six people on the panel, we would each have 3-4 minutes to speak.  Laurie, on the other hand, has given herself 15 minutes to speak.

I’m feeling like this is not really about a success panel for the writers.  This is about being on exhibition for the attendees.  The message is clear – come to this conference – you’ll get published – see here are six writers to look at.  I’m feeling used.  I’m going to do it anyway.