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Dissertation Writers Retreat

About the DWR

Are you working on your dissertation or other academic writing? This free event series held each semester is geared towards UofM graduate students and focuses on improving your writing and writing techniques, completing your dissertation, and what to do after dissertation. These events are sponsored by the University Libraries, Graduate School, and Writing and Communication Services (formerly the Center for Writing and Communication). We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility or the event, contact Brannen Varner at bvvarner@memphis.edu or 901.482.8206. 

 

Upcoming DWR Events

Dissertation Writers Retreat  |  August 5-7, 2025  |  8:30 AM-3 PM  |  McWherter Library, 2nd Floor Commons

UofM graduate students working on their thesis or dissertation are invited to take part in our free 3-day writing retreat sponsored by the University Libraries, the Graduate School and the Writing and Communication Services at CASA. The retreat will include morning sessions, peer review sessions and dedicated writing time. View the full schedule below. Register by July 22, 2025. Contact brannen varner with any questions.

Register today!

 

Event Schedule: August 5-7, 2025

Tuesday, August 5 

  • 8:30 am - Check-in & welcome, 2nd Floor Commons
  • 8:45-9:45 - Session 1: Formatting for Dissertation Submission, Beverly McPhail (Graduate School)
  • 9:45-10 - Coffee Break
  • 10-11 - Session 2: Writing Plan & Habits, Dr. Meredith Boulden (Writing & Communication Services)
  • 11-Noon - Pomodoro Writing Hour, Room 225
  • 12:30 pm-1:30 - Independent Lunch
  • 1:30-3 - Break Out: Small Group Peer Review

Wednesday, August 6

  • 8:30 am - Check-in & welcome, 2nd Floor Commons
  • 8:45-9:15 - Session 1: Scholarly Presence, Dr. Kenneth Haggerty (University Libraries)
  • 9:15-9:45 - Session 2: Access/Embargoes and Your Dissertation, Elizabeth McDonald (University Libraries)
  • 9:45-10 - Coffee Break
  • 10-11 - Session 3: Literature Review Strategies Panel
    • Moderator: Ashley Roach-Freiman, University Libraries
    • Health Sciences Panelist: Kristin M. Geater, Clinical Assistant Professor
    • Engineering & Physical Sciences Panelist: Dr. Chrysanthe Preza, Chair and Kanuri Professor
    • Social & Behavioral Sciences Panelist: Dr. Andrew Tawfik, Associate Professor, Instruction and Design Technology
  • 11-Noon - Independent Writing & Research
  • Noon-1:30 pm - Lunch & Learn: Graduate Student Mental Health, Victoria Jones (Counseling Center)
  • 1:30-3 - Break Out: Small Group Peer Review

Thursday, August 7

  • 8:30 am - Check-in & welcome, 2nd Floor Commons
  • 8:45-9:45 - Session 1: Prepare for Your Defense, Carl Hill (Writing & Communication Services)
  • 9:45-10 - Coffee Break
  • 10-11 - Session 2: Advancing Your Career, Mitzi Igleharte (Career Services)
  • 11-Noon - Session 3: Search the Stacks, Brannen Varner (University Libraries)
  • Noon-1:30 pm - Independent Lunch 
  • 1:30-2:30 - Pomodoro Writing Hour, Room 225
  • 2:30-3 - Wrap Up

 

DWR Resources

Missed a DWR event? Want to revisit past talks? Check out our Playlist of DWR Videos & Previous Speakers and past materials in the University of Memphis Digital Commons. 

Looking for dissertation tips & resources? Check out our Dissertation Writers Resources Guide.

 

Past Events (links go to recordings)

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