Pat Conroy, who sadly passed away in March, always felt he owed a debt not only to his loyal readers, but to all of those who helped him along the way. During his lifetime, he was known as a staunch champion and tireless supporter of emerging writers. His tutelage left a legacy nearly equal to his stupendous literary output.
Now, his debt of gratitude will be repaid in perpetuity through the Pat Conroy Literary Center, set to open in Beaufort, South Carolina, this fall.
Operating under the belief that “writing can bring meaning in and of itself, changing both our own lives and our world,” the Pat Conroy Literary Center will:
- Host readings by acclaimed regional and national authors
- Offer writing classes both at the Center and also off site, hosting classes at venues such as schools, senior centers, military bases, etc.
- Expand literary arts education programs currently available by placing writers in K-12 classrooms to work with students
- Sponsor lectures, master classes and special events
- Provide space for book groups and writing groups
- Create mentorships for middle and high school writing students
- Offer ongoing professional development for English teachers
- Provide need-based scholarships to our programs
- Secure financially and renovate our location in downtown Beaufort
- Collaborate with libraries and other organizations
- Create an English Teacher of the Year award
- And so much more
Conroy was the author of the universally-read books The Great Santini and The Prince of Tides, both of which were made into Oscar-nominated movies. His life and works will be celebrated during the Pat Conroy Literary Festival, October 23-26, in Beaufort.
For more information about the author, and the Pat Conroy Literary Center, click here.