- Southwest Washington Writers Conference

Since 2014, the Southwest Washington Writers Conference has provided writers with a craft-focused experience. Held at Centralia College, the event consists of master classes on Friday and opens on Saturday with a keynote speaker, followed by a day full of workshops. In 2024, the AAUW debuted its Evening with Authors on Friday night. This volunteer-run conference seeks to motivate, inspire, and encourage writers at all career stages.

It’s exciting for us to offer aspiring writers, published authors, and students the opportunity to learn while raising money for the Centralia College Foundation. While eager to inspire writers who attend our conference, we also strive to benefit the community. Proceeds support the conference and provide scholarships through the Centralia College Foundation.

Early Registration - Friday Master Class/Saturday Conference

^$160/ person

Admittance for both days
Access to Master Classes and Workshops
Includes lunch both days
Unlimited snacks and beverages

Single Day

Early Registration - Friday Master Class Only

^$100/ person

Admittance Friday only
Two 3-Hour Master Classses
Includes lunch
Unlimited snacks and beverages

Single Day

Early Registration - Saturday Conference Only

^$100/ person

Admittance Saturday only
Four times slots with 24 workshops available
Includes lunch
Unlimited snacks and beverages

Kristina McMorrisKeynote

Rosanne ParryKeynote

Derek SheffieldWA Poet Laureate

Connie Jasperson

“The connections I have made through attending this conference over the years have turned into lifelong friendships. I’ve met people I can talk to about every aspect of the experience of writing as well as craft. No one’s eyes glaze over when you try to explain your main character's inner demons and you find people with struggles similar to your own.”

Alan RosePresenter

“Your conference has an informality and friendliness that some of the larger conferences often lack; the setting and the atmosphere are welcoming and relaxed and make for easy networking and finding others of shared writing interests.”

Robin MontgomeryVolunteer

“I enjoyed learning practical tips from experts, meeting other writers, and making connections. I came away inspired, motivated, and encouraged. I can’t wait to put some of these ideas into practice!”

Four attendees participating in SWWC genre lunch

February 24, 2025March 3, 2025 No Comment

Genre Lunch Back on the Conference Menu for 2025

Conference 2025 SWWC Writers Conference

February 4, 2025March 3, 2025 No Comment

Discover Aha Moments at Our Writers Conference

Title Evening with Authors on page purple and pink looks liks an evening sunset

January 24, 2025March 3, 2025 No Comment

Evening with Authors: Celebrate Literature in Lewis County

Q: When do tickets go on sale?

A: Early Registration tickets will go on sale on April 1, 2026. On August 1st ticket prices will return to general admission pricing until the day of the event – however space is limited.

Q: How can I purchase tickets for the Evening with Authors event?

A: There will be an add-on with the registration or they can be purchased at the door.

Q: What if I change my mind about the workshops I selected?

A: You are free to choose another class on the day of the event. However, keep in mind that handouts are printed according to the number of attendees registered.

Q: Do you have agent pitches?

A: Not at this time. Our conference is craft-focused. We aim to keep the cost affordable, and we can do so by focusing on teaching instead of paying to bring in agents and editors. This may be something we offer in the future.

Q: What’s your refund policy?

A: Tickets can be refunded up to six days before the event, not including any registration fees.