Annual RSA Scholarly Writing Retreat – 2026

Overview:

We invite applications to the second annual RSA scholarly writing retreat, a 4-day writing retreat aimed at the professional development of Rhetoric, Writing, and Communication scholars working on an early book project. While the development of the book project serves a pivotal role, the retreat will also provide a healthy space for reflection and discussion of the profession, and opportunities for digitally innovated scholarship or public facing projects. In 2026 this annual retreat is jointly facilitated by Aja Y. Martinez, V. Jo Hsu, and Laura Gonzales (joined in part by guest facilitator Ersula Ore) and is made possible through the generosity of Andrea Lunsford. 

As colleges and universities continue to struggle to recruit, retain, and support scholars of color, one important need is for mentoring and development opportunities geared toward promotion and tenure. Based on the scholarly writing retreat developed and facilitated by Adam Banks for over 5 years at the University of Kentucky and Stanford University, this retreat encourages and supports the professional development of emerging scholars through these approaches and activities : 

• A communal approach to mentoring;
• Dedicated planning and drafting time, as well discussion and engagement with experts across the field regarding other elements of proposing, negotiating, and submitting a book project; 
• Workshops devoted to exploring the major milestones  of the book writing process;
• Workshops devoted to thinking about the conceptual and literal roles of community and voice in the development of a book project and career;
• And workshops devoted expanding and reimagining the distribution and alternative expressions of a major book project; 

Given that there are needs for this kind of support beyond what scholars’ home departments and institutions can offer, RSA will sponsor the retreat as a part of fostering deeper connections to RSA membership for participants. 

Who Should Apply?:

RSA members who are: emerging scholars in Rhetoric and related fields; committed to fostering a more inclusive and representative climate within rhetorical studies and centering work that is frequently overlooked and ignored within mainstream research; and, working on a single-authored book or an extended digital research project in the field. Open to scholars in Communication, English Studies, or independent Rhetoric/Writing Studies programs, or on the Philosophy side of Rhetoric.

How to Apply?:

• Complete the application form, available HERE until February 15, 2026. In the form, submit 1) a letter of application describing your research, field, positionality, the status of the book project you may have proposed or are looking to propose, and any additional information you would like to share about your interests in participating in the retreat; and 2) a current CV.
• Submit all requested materials to no later than February 15, 2026.
• You must be a current member of RSA and logged into your account in order to access the application form.
• If you have questions, please contact Aja Martinez at [email protected].

Retreat Details

• Dates: July 13 – 16, 2026 (arrive Sunday afternoon/evening the 12th, depart Friday morning the 17th)
• Location: Chicago, IL
• Capacity: 8 scholars
• Fees: Airfare, lodging, program participation fees, and most on-site meals covered in full by the program

Other Perks 

• Guaranteed session at the RSA Conference in Baltimore in 2028
• Zoom check-ins to update progress and provide continuing feedback as participants want it. These sessions will include dialogue with past years’ participants.