Mark I. West named first recipient of Charlotte Writers Club Advocate Award

Mark I. West, professor of English in the College of Humanities & Earth and Social Sciences, has been named as the inaugural recipient of the Charlotte Writers Club Advocate Award.

The award was created to celebrate individuals who mentor and education writers, volunteer their time and expertise, advocate for writers and their work, lead and inspire in the literary community and contribute professionally to the literary world. West will be honored at the May 20 meeting of the Charlotte Writers Club.

“Dr. West embodies every facet of this award,” said Barbara Reese Yager, Charlotte Writers Club president. “Through scholarship, service, and heart, he uplifts writers and readers alike. His work fosters community, imagination, and the love of storytelling.”

Now in his 82nd consecutive semester of teaching, West has shaped and supported the writing community through teaching, mentorship, and scholarship, and coached former students to become writers and scholars in their own right. He is the author of 24 books, and edited and contributed to many more on topics from children’s literature to popular culture.

West’s weekly installments of his Storied Charlotte blog help shine a spotlight on the Charlotte region’s literary events, organizations and authors. The blog has served as a stage for local voices to connect with the with the area’s literary scene.

A longtime advocate of reading and public access to literature, West organizes the annual “Read Aloud Rodeo” at Park Road Books, a day-long event where local educators read their favorite picture books to children. West’s passion for inspiring young readers is also evident in his ongoing support for the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library and its literary initiatives for children.

West’s previous accolades include multiple awards for teaching excellence, the Governor James E. Holshouser Jr. Award for Excellence in Public Service and the Distinguished Faculty Award from UNC Charlotte Alumni Association. At UNC Charlotte, he has served in numerous leadership roles, including the chair of the Department of English and director of multiple programs.