Department Writing Contests

English Department Writing Contests

The Charles Baxter Short Story Contest
Charles Baxter is a National Book Award-nominated novelist, essayist, poet, winner of the 2021 PEN/Malamud Award for Excellence in the Short Story, and a 1969 graduate of Macalester College. This contest is for English and Creative Writing majors and minors only. $100 cash prize.
Deadline: Sunday, March 1, 2026 by midnight and follow these guidelines:
ENCW Department Guidelines for the Charles Baxter Short Story Contest 2026

The Harry Scherman Writing Contest for Seniors
This endowed prize is awarded to seniors for the most outstanding manuscripts in the following categories:
Literary Analysis – Creative Prose – Poetry
All Macalester English and Creative Writing major seniors are eligible, but you may submit an entry to only one category. Up to seven $350 prizes.
Deadline: Sunday, March 1, 2026 by midnight and must follow these guidelines:
ENCW Department Guidelines for the Harry Scherman Writing Contest for Seniors 2026

The Ardis Hillman Wheeler Prize for International Study
Awarded to English and Creative Writing majors for their study away in the fall of 2026 or spring of 2027. Established by family and friends in honor of Ardis Hillman Wheeler ’38, who devoted her life to the teaching of English, first to refugees after WWII and later in the MN public schools. Students should submit a copy of their study away application. Up to three prizes of $400.00.
Deadline: Sunday, March 1, 2026 by midnight.

English Department Awards

Livingston-Patnode Award:
A cash award for a graduating senior who has made a special contribution as an English major.
$500 prize.

Wendy Parrish Poetry Award:
A cash award to an English major(s) who exemplifies a commitment to poetry and excellence in writing.
$900 prize (may be split between winners).

All winners will be announced at the English End-of-Year Celebration on May 4, 2026.