With the creation of the “Mitchell Literary Review” (MLR), students across majors now have a dedicated space to showcase their creative output. The MLR features student literary works such as poems, short fiction, and short dialogues.

The founding group behind the MLR—educators and creatives at Mitchell—recognized the vital need to celebrate the inspiring and imaginative work produced both inside and outside the classroom. Together, they created an opportunity for the entire student population to amplify their voices and share their unique talents.

The Review Board for the MLR was formed by a group of Mitchell faculty and staff with a shared vision: Dr. Nancy Bombaci, associate professor; Nikole Giovinazzo, Thames instructor and advisor; Katie Nazarian, director of library & information services; and Megan Swanson, adjunct writing instructor and tutor. They began calls for submission to students in Fall 2025 through flyers, emails, and college writing classes.

Students with work selected for potential publication in the inaugural MLR entered a collaborative workshop with a board member. This process mirrors the professional world, where creatives collaborate and get evaluated. In the same way, students benefit from hands-on experience with critical feedback, one-on-one editing, and preparation for future literary pursuits.

Students also learned about copyright law and author consent in the publication process, both through instruction in the library and online reference.

The journal serves as permanent artifact of the creative spirit at Mitchell College. In addition to online publication, student works are preserved in the Mitchell College Archives.

MLR Issue I is now available. A call for works for the second issue will be made in Fall 2026. For more information about the mission of the MLR or to explore its progress, please visit review.mitchell.edu.