Erica Witsell, ELA Instructor and JumpStart Advisor for the Department of Transitional Studies, received the Gold Award from the Independent Book Publishers Association for her debut novel Give.
The IBPA Benjamin Franklin Award program, which include 56 categories recognizing excellence in book editorial and design, are regarded as one of the highest national honors for independent publishers. The awards are administered by the IBPA with help from over 160 book publishing professionals including librarians, bookstore owners, reviewers, designers, publicity managers, and editors. The IBPA Benjamin Franklin Awards are regarded as one of the highest national honors in independent publishing.
“Erica is an incredible teacher and advisor, too,” said Rebecca Loli, Director of Transitional Studies. “She is a super achiever with a very sincere heart.” Witsell has a bachelor’s degree from Wesleyan University and a master’s from UC Berkeley.
Give was published June 1, 2019, when it received praise from local, bestselling author Ron Rash. "Give is a striking, often unflinching, depiction of a doomed marriage and its enduring consequences. Erica Witsell is a very talented writer and her debut should garner a wide and appreciative audience."
The Awards Ceremony was shown on social media.