SSU’s Estuary Named Best Undergraduate Literary Magazine in the Nation

Savannah State University’s (SSU) student-led literary Magazine, Estuary, won first place in the 2025 Association of Writers and Writing Programs (AWP) Prize for undergraduate literary magazines, beating out Rice University and Yale University, which earned second and third place, respectively.

Estuary, volume 16, was chosen out of hundreds of entries by AWP, formerly the National Program Director’s Prize. The AWP Prize for undergraduate literary magazines is awarded annually to one outstanding, undergraduate-led journal and two runners-up. The prize celebrates the work of undergraduate student writers and editors, including exceptional content, cohesive design, and innovation.

Ona Anosike, the founder and chief editor of the Tonic, a literary journal associated with Lesley University, served as the 2025 AWP judge.

“Estuary from Savannah State University is a bold and beautifully produced journal that reflects a campus community deeply invested in the literary arts,” said Anosike. “The themes of resilience and liberation thread through its pages, not just in the work itself, but in the spirit behind it. From its sharp writing to its strong visual design, the journal feels alive with voice and vision. It’s clear that this is more than a publication; it’s a platform for connection, expression, and creative power.”

Faculty co-advisors Dr. Chad Faries, associate professor of English, and Kelly Evans, instructor of English, provided editorial guidance and support. Dr. Faries also serves as senior editor for Estuary.

“I want to express my gratitude to our incredible president, Nyree Wright, for her visionary leadership over the past two years,” said Faries. He also acknowledged the support of Shed Dawson, director of Career Services and the Leadership Development Center, and Bonita Bradley, dean of students.

“Our co-advisor Kelly Evans and former advisor Elizabeth Kaiser played crucial roles in revitalizing the organization, helping to cultivate a culture of creativity on campus,” Faries added. “We also extend thanks to Dr. Nicholas Silberg, chair of the Department of Visual and Performing Arts, for his continued support.”

In addition to earning national recognition for Volume 16, Estuary also celebrated outstanding student work through its guest submission contest. Members of the Estuary editorial team and the Estuary Creative Writing Club reviewed submissions in both prose and poetry.

Prose Category Winners:
• Samantha Thompson – Best Prose, College of Education
• Macayla Moody – Best Prose, College of Sciences and Technology
• Keyonna A. Primus – Best Overall, College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

Poetry Category Winners:
• Kyndall Jackson – Best Poem, College of Education
• Madeleine Nolan – Best Poem, College of Business Administration
• Victoria Harris – Overall Winner, College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
• Macayla Moody – Best Poem, College of Sciences and Technology

The Estuary Volume 16 editorial team included Sierra Edmonds, Sierra Sails, and Nyree Wright. Layout and design were led by Chloe Gallivan and Belkys Del Valle Allred. Nyree Wright served as president, with Kailee Mack as vice president.