Writing Contests

The Frances G. Barrett Memorial Creative Writing Contest

Deadline: February 27, 2026

The Frances G. Barrett Memorial Creative Writing Contest is held annually at Henry Ford College to honor the memory of the English Department's first department chairperson. The contest promotes and celebrates the creative writing of students at Henry Ford College. The top five winners are recognized at an annual public reading of each winning entry. The event is hosted by the English Department's Barrett Committee. Winners receive the Frances G. Barrett Memorial Scholarship.

The Barrett Creative Writing Contest is open to works of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, experimental prose, and drama from currently enrolled Henry Ford College students.

Geraldine Grunow Prize for Excellence in Community-Engaged Writing

Deadline: February 27, 2026

The Geraldine Grunow Prize for Excellence in Community-Engaged Writing is an annual writer’s contest that honors the legacy of retired English faculty member Geraldine Grunow, a dedicated teacher and community activist whose life work has focused on universal human rights and civic engagement. This contest promotes and celebrates the community-engaged academic writing of students at Henry Ford College. The Mirror News will publish the winner of the Grunow Prize in its annual issue of the Looking Glass magazine.

The 2026 award ceremony will be held in-person from 12:40 p.m. - 2 p.m., Thursday, April 16th, Rosenau Rooms in the Administrative Services and Conference Center building "L," on the Henry Ford College main campus, 5101 Evergreen Rd., Dearborn, MI 48128.