Writer urges students: ‘read and persevere’

This story was originally published in The Sylva Herald. Every Monday night since January, 10 students have met for class in the Coulter building on Western Carolina University’s campus. They read stories, write and present on contemporary work—all while learning from one of America’s towering professional writers: WCU professor and Jackson County resident Ron Rash. […]

Comedian, magician, and balloon artist John Cassidy performs at WCU

The U.C. Grand Room room was popping on Wednesday, April 19, when comedian, magician, and balloon artist John Cassidy performed a hilarious show for Western students. The record-holding and critically acclaimed entertainer, and self-proclaimed “balloon guy,” kicked off his act by lapping the room distributing more pre-made balloon sculptures than the roughly 60 audience members. Once […]

Taikoza brings a taste of Japanese culture to WCU

Western Carolina brought a little taste of Japanese culture to the Bardo Arts Center on Wednesday night, April 18, with a performance from Taikoza. Taikoza is the only performance group in the United States that incorporates the use of Japanese dance and instruments such as Taiko drums, which are large drums made of tree trunks […]

Blackrock Outdoor Company settles in at WCU

Article co-written with Haley Smith Blackrock Outdoor Company is a locally owned and operated outdoor gear shop well-known for it’s location in downtown Sylva. The thriving business opened its second location in WCU’s Noble Hall on Feb. 27 and it has sparked the interest of many students and faculty. The addition of the store along with Subway, […]

The 15th Literary Festival is over; preps for next one start

On April 6, the Coulter recital hall filled up with people to listen to a poetry reading from one of the most famous contemporary poets: Billy Collins. After 13 artists visited WCU, the 15th Literary Festival ended. This year’s Literary Festival started on April 3 and featured short story writers, novelists, poets and for the first […]