Jenifer DeBellis, president of the Macomb Writing Club, couldn't be more deserving of the title. The organization started as a humble idea for fellow Macomb Community College student and Founding President Cathy Plum, and it would not be what it is without the immaculate efforts put in by Jenifer. She has spent endless time, her own money, and given her genuine heart to the one-year-old club. Thanks to her determination and devotion, the Writing Club and Macomb Guild of Writers have published five Half Books, hosted numerous events, and continue to bring together creatively gifted minds in an environment that inspires education, versatile growth, and lifelong friendship.
Q: The Writing Club and Macomb Guild of Writers have come a long way since they were first established a year ago. What were your original intentions when you began this project with Cathy?
Returning to school as a legitimately seasoned adult has been more advantageous than I dreamed possible. Not wanting to experience college life as a hit-and-run student like I did the first time around, I immediately sought out MCC’s offerings for writers. To my dismay, there weren’t any extra-curricular outlets for creative writers. But I wasn’t alone in my desire for this type of interaction. One email and phone call later – a two-hour conversation, I might add – and Cathy Plum and I could be confused for long lost friends finding each other again. And she’s not the only one: Stella (Wilfinger) Rothe and Nancy Washburn were equally as passionate about uniting for this cause.
Our combined passions and desires for these creative networks were harmonious. We planned on creating a nurturing and safe environment for aspiring writers and artists to come together, learn the tools of the trade, and inspire one another in their creative pursuits. Our intention was to grow and have fun together. The aspect of self-publishing a student publication was one dear to all of our hearts. And with Cathy’s dream of the Half Book, our baby was born.
Q: Members that may not have otherwise been published in a major publication have been featured in other publications along with the Half Books. How does this make you feel, and what do you think it says about the writing group?
Well, as part of my bio states, I am passionate about inspiring the creativity in others and watching their dreams become a reality. Encouraging other writers and artists to submit their work for publication in the Half Books, as well as steering them toward SEVERAL other submissions venues, has been so rewarding. It’s such a blessing to work with such amazingly beautiful minds, and it’s an honor to publish their work. A highlight on this note is that the 2010 spring issue of the Bac Street Journal included the works of five MCC students. It was exhilarating to be published with four of my classmates that I personally encouraged to submit to this Chicago based publication.
Q: What are you present goals for the writing group? What do you wish to accomplish?
My goals are to continue nurturing these groups with the original vision statement in mind. I am also excited about implementing peer-to-peer workshopping during club time, as well as bringing in MCC faculty members who will be sharing areas of specialty. As I prepare to transfer to OU in the winter, it is also important to me to continue structuring the bridge that spans the gap between the two networks.
Q: Of course, you would not have joined the group if you weren’t also the talented and passionate writer that you are. What inspires you? What type of writing do you do the most?
Ah, to narrow down my passions – I will do my best. I am inspired by everything! Life is one big playground of inspiration: interesting people, music, places, things… it’s hard not to be inspired into a creative mindset. I live life hard, love even harder, and see things through unique eyes.
Poetry is my strong suit and largest passion, but my love of writing short stories is evolving into a serious contender. One thing that can be said about my style is that I tend to focus in on little details, and I can’t resist painting a picture with words through unique metaphors and surreal symbolism.
Q: Along with being an exceptional student, talented writer, and cherished president of the writing group, you are also a supportive wife and dedicated mother. How do you balance it all? Do you have any advice for the students, especially ones with children?
Here is the million-dollar question! Balance is an illusion, one that can steal one’s peace if not careful. Learning how to prioritize has been a work in progress and learn-as-I-go journey. Before returning to school, I was overly dedicated to my family. This truth, combined with the distractions and change in focus, was challenging for my entire household. A year later, we have managed to work through many disappointments, rebuild relationships, and collectively establish reasonable expectations. And we are all better for the experience!
My advice to students with children is to understand there will be obstacles along the road to achieving any of their dreams. However, complete self-sacrifice is a temporary phase in a mother’s life; it isn’t healthy for anyone in the household if she remains in this position permanently. Finding ways to bridge the gap of both worlds is well worth the effort.
It’s been quite a journey. You’ve done a Herculean job with this organization, and I think every single member would agree with me when I say that as a member and a friend, you are irreplaceable. Being a part of The Macomb Guild of Writers means a great deal to me; I’m certain that I am not the only one who feels this way, and I want to congratulate you on it all.
