PUBLISHER'S LETTER
From the Publisher
Bruce See larger image
The creative process is, of course, essential to the development of great writers and poets, and sometimes that process includes taking courses in creative writing. But creative writing programs also benefit those who do not aspire to become published authors, from lawyers to engineers. Even students taking a single creative writing class can find that it aids their ability to communicate across disciplines.
In this issue of Ezra, we look not only at the example of Cornell's creative writing program and how it is central to the humanities at the university, but also at its ability to transfer techniques and skills that are crucial in many other fields.
In our cover story, you will hear from authors and poets among Cornell's faculty and also from talented undergraduates like Helen Havlak '11 and young alumni like Junot Díaz MFA '95, the 2008 winner of the Pulitzer Prize for fiction.
Also in this issue: a feature on the future of the Africana Studies and Research Center, which is marking its 40th anniversary this year; a look at a professor who has brought century-old eggs to life to study evolution; why some lawns on campus are growing into meadow; and the debut of two new regular feature sections -- on Cornell in New York City and on Cornell people.
Thomas W. Bruce
Vice President, University Communications