UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The winning submissions from Penn State University Libraries' Short Stories “Head in the Clouds” spring 2023 contest have been announced. Representing 20 submissions across five Penn State campuses, the latest writing contest encouraged students, faculty and staff across the commonwealth to submit their best original short stories or poetry inspired by the surrealist art movement of the early 20th century.
All winning Libraries Short Stories Editorial Board entries, including one honorable mention, will be published in the fall 2023 issue of the Penn State University Library Magazine, which highlights student accomplishments across the University Libraries. Each of the five winners will receive a $100 Visa gift card.
The Libraries' Short Stories Editorial Board winners, chosen by the all-student editorial team and listed alphabetically by title, are:
- "Is That You?” written by Marco Falcucci, a third-year undergraduate student.
- “Planetary Peach,” written by Lance Colet, a fourth-year undergraduate studying at Penn State University Park campus.
- “Spelling Bee,” written by Complex Advocate, pen name for Khaleah Jackson, a third-year undergraduate studying at Penn State University Park campus.
- “Sticky Keys,” written by Sarah Neely, a second-year undergraduate studying at Penn State University Park campus.
- “Untitled,” written by estori, pen name for Kendra Spevak, a first-year undergraduate studying at Penn State University Park campus.
One honorable mention was also chosen by the all-student editorial team:
- "The Organs of St. Petersburg," written by Rebecca Horwitt, faculty/staff at Penn State University Park campus.
Students interested in joining the Editorial Board or who have questions about the Libraries' Short Stories writing contests or co-curricular use, can contact Danica White, student engagement coordinator for Library Learning Services, at dew5422@psu.edu.