CONTACT: LISA GARRETT, EXT. 2315

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 9/28/2001
(By Lisa Garrett)

ANDERSON --- A poem written by Jillian Danson, a former Tri-County Technical College student, was among the winning entries at a national amateur poetry contest and earned her a publishing contract with Watermark Press.

Last year Danson, of Anderson, entered the International Amateur Poet of the Year contest which was sponsored by the International Society of Poets. She recently attended the three-day conference held in Washington, D.C. There were 2,000 entrants from 30 countries. Danson was one of 10 to earn a publishing contract and received her award from Today Show Weatherman Willard Scott.

She credits Tri-County English faculty Ron Rash and Robin McFall with their advice in selecting her winning poem. "I had selected three or four poems and asked for their ideas. We narrowed it down to two. They are great. They like what they do, and they take the time to help and to explain," said Danson, a 1999 graduate of Walhalla High School.

"Jillian is very insightful, and I could always count on her to add to class discussions," said McFall, who was Danson's instructor for two English classes. "Her winning poem showed great creativity and contained great literary allusions."

"I never expected to win. The conference offers writing seminars and is really a lot of fun. I really recommend the seminar to those who like to write," said Danson.

After taking University Transfer classes at Tri-County, Danson transferred to Anderson College where next semester she will double major in writing and English education. She wants to pursue a master's degree and to teach English on the college level.
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