A Life of Learning, A Career of Teaching: Celebrating Dr. Margaret Perrow

By Nylah Winchester, English Major

For two decades, Dr. Margaret Perrow has guided students at SOU through writing, reflection, and the work of becoming teachers. Through her teaching, leadership in the Oregon Writing Project, and dedication to education, Dr. Perrow has built spaces where learning and connection flourished. As she prepares to retire, we honor her complex career grounded in mentorship and community.

SOU English Alums Daniel and Julie Bring Stanley Luther’s Memoir to Life

By Nylah Winchester, English Major

SOU alumni Daniel Alrick and Julie Kanta joined forces to help Air Force veteran Stanley Luther preserve nearly a century of lived experience. While Daniel shaped Stan’s voice on the page through hours of interviews and ghostwriting, Julie crafted the editorial structure, design, and production that brought the manuscript to life. Together, they created A Lifetime in the Atmosphere: A Memoir of Flight that honors Stan’s voice and history.

From SOU to Oxford Brookes: Sophia Lorusso’s Path to Publishing

By Nylah Winchester, English Major

SOU alumna Sophia Lorusso turned her passion for editing into an international adventure by pursuing her master’s degree at Oxford Brookes University in England. She combines technical skill, creativity, and dedication to shape her professional path while immersing herself in Oxford’s rich literary history!

Open Books, Fresh Pages, & New Possibilities

By Nylah Winchester, English Major

Nylah Winchester, this year’s English Program blog-writer, recounts her eventful summer vacation and details what she is excited about for the fall term. Nylah then introduces Emma Pearl Williams and Emily Jennings, two incoming English students, who are just as thrilled for their upcoming experiences.

Farewell, Annalynn! Hello, Nylah!

By Nylah Winchester, junior English major and Annalynn Mueller, senior English major

Nylah Winchester, the incoming English program blogger interviews Annalynn Mueller, the current blogger about her time as an English major and her experience blogging over the past two years. Annalynn then introduces Nylah and welcomes her into the role of blogging.

Allie Sipe ’17, Housing Attorney in Legal Aid

By Annalynn Mueller, English Major

Allie Sipe, a 2017 graduate of SOU’s English program, now works as a housing attorney in a legal aid organization. She shares her experience at SOU, prior work experience, and how she impacts her community through her work.

Brystan Strong ‘13, Programs Coordinator for Jackson County Library Services

By Annalynn Mueller, English Major

SOU English program alum, Brystan Strong now works as Programs Coordinator for Jackson County Library Services. She shares her insights about her job, about librarianship in general, and advice on how readers can support their local libraries.

The Adventure of Writing: A Look into Holly Searcy’s Author Journey

By Annalynn Mueller, English Major

Holly Searcy, 2009 English and Creative Writing Major, has always loved to read and recently harnessed that passion into becoming a fantasy author. She shares her path, process, hopes for readers, and advice for aspiring authors.

SOU English and Sociology & Anthropology Majors Attend the NYC Colleges and Communities Advocacy Institute

By Annalynn Mueller, English Major

SOU English major Connor Babbitt recently had the opportunity to attend the American Civil Liberties Union Conference with Sociology and Anthropology major Ally Grommes. Connor and Ally learned about how to engage in social-justice advocacy. They share their insight from the conference and give advice to people wanting to get involved in advocacy work.

Advice and Inspiration from ELA Experts: SOU English Program Panel Presentation

By Annalynn Mueller, English Major

In December 2024, the SOU English program invited educators from across the valley to share their experiences teaching English language arts across grade levels. Through sharing their experiences and insight, they inspired students, faculty, and community members.