WRITING THE MIDWEST: A Symposium of Scholars and Creative Writers

The Society for the Study of Midwestern Literature (SSML)

May 28-29, 2026. Kellogg Hotel and Convention Center, East Lansing, Michigan

About SSML and The Writing the Midwest Symposium: The Society for the Study of Midwestern Literature (SSML), founded in 1971, exists to support the study and dissemination of work in Midwestern literature, art, film, and scholarly study. 

An annual symposium takes place each May on the campus of Michigan State University, offering a venue for the work of scholars, teachers, creative writers, and contemporary artists to celebrate the literary history, traditions, and cultural heritage of the Midwest. SSML encourages the study of Midwestern literature and culture in whatever directions the insight, imagination, and curiosity of its members may lead. We encourage a wide range of papers and panels related to literary study, creative work, and pedagogy.

This year’s conference will take place over two days: Thursday, May 28, 2026, and Friday, May 29, 2026. Additional details about SSML and the annual conference can be found at the society’s website: https://ssml.org/

To Propose an Individual Paper: Please use this link to propose an individual paper or academic presentation on Midwestern literature or film, or to propose an individual reading of original creative work:  2026 SSML INDIVIDUAL Proposal form

To Propose a Panel Proposal: Please use this link to propose an entire, themed panel:  2026 SSML PANEL submission form

DEADLINE: Midnight, Monday, February 15, 2026 (US Eastern Time Zone).

DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY: AV options are somewhat limited.  We can provide a projector and screen.  Please note below if your panel will require AV.

STUDENTS: If you are currently a student, please go to the SSML website (ssml.org) to apply for a Wydeven travel support scholarship. Students must apply for the travel scholarship by Monday, February 15, 2026.

QUESTIONS? Contact the conference organizers, Jeffrey Hotz (jhotz@esu.edu) and Rachael Price (rprice@abac.edu)