Please Note: this information is from last year's Institute. Save the date: the 2013 Writers' Institute will be held April 12, 13, and 14.

Comments from past participants

"A wealth of information. I cannot list the number of times I found myself nodding in agreement with what was said. It was a joy to know I am not alone in this crazy world called a writer's life."–Kristopher Kaun, Madison, Wis.

“All of the speakers provide lots of encouragement and great tips.
The two days are exhausting, yet incredibly inspiring.”–Vicky L. Daniels Bardell, Fort Atkinson, Wis.

“Incredible keynote speaker—true inspiration and remained so accessible throughout the conference—how wonderful!” –Denise M. Utter, New Lenox, Ill.

“The sessions gave me insight into the lives of our speaker-writers and how they keep on going. They all inspired me to keep on in my writing craft--to keep on living, observing and practicing writing.” –Karen Czebotar, McFarland, Wis.

“I learned something in every session.” –Hilde Adler, Madison, Wis.

“I attended the Writer's Institute last summer, and it was an extremely positive (if not life-changing) few days for me. In the months since, I've secured a book deal and publication in the NY Times! I sincerely thank you and the rest of the program developers.” —Laura Schaefer, Madison, Wis.

“I attended the Writers Institute. That two-day gem has really helped turn my manuscript from just a good story into a good novel—a great novel! I took copious notes. [The agent at the conference] had looked at my proposal. He read half and said, ‘Send me your stuff when it's ready.' I'm ready.”—William Beers, Lodi, Wisconsin

“Dear Mr. Cook, I recently attended the 2002 Writers Conference and wanted to thank you and the other organizers. I found the sessions extremely helpful and inspirational. In fact, I finished the first draft of a novel this month.” —from unsigned evaluation form

“Hi, Laurel. You were such a delightful conversationalist and encourager at W.I. last month—many thanks. One thing's for sure, I plan to get to many more W.Is. In the past three years (since I've become a novelist—how I LOVE saying that), I've been to a number of writers conferences, and your W.I. is the BEST so far—and what an awesome location! …I'm getting started on the second novel in my trilogy.” —Millie Samuelson, Chesterton, Indiana

“I really enjoyed the conference—very well run and organized. Professional. Great speakers—enthusiastic. Love the handouts for all the talks.” —Ann Morstad Boldt, Elm Grove, Wisconsin