The Mercyhurst College English Department is continuing its annual tradition of the Lumen literary arts magazine this year, but student submissions are required to do so.

The Lumen is a hard-copy publication of students’ poems and works of fiction. Along with the publication is an interactive CD of not just the students’ writings but also of dance clips, music clips, moving graphics and full color art.

The art includes photos from the dance, music and art departments.
Dr. Ken Schiff and Dr. Marnie Sullivan, English professors at Mercyhurst, are co-advisers of the Lumen.

“No other college that I know of has the Lumen and the interactive CD,” Schiff said.

In order for the Lumen to be a success, students must submit their creative works. The literary magazine is not department oriented, as students in any department can submit their writings, music clips, dance performances and photography for possible publication.

The deadline for submissions is Monday, Dec. 13.

Awards for the top three Lumen writers are chosen by a panel of judges. The first place prize is $250; second place prize; $150; and third place, $100. All three winners receive a framed certificate.

Schiff encourages students to take part in the Lumen.

“I feel this is really a student-run publication,” he said. “It is also a wonderful opportunity for students to feel the accomplishment of being published.”

Students interested in submitting their work to the Lumen can attach their writing in a Microsoft Word document and e-mail it to Schiff at kschiff@mercyhurst.edu.

The awards and the unveiling of the Lumen will take place on Thursday, April 4, in Taylor Little Theater.