By Margaret Schell

T he annual Margaret Harvin Wilson Writing Awards ceremony took place at Georgia College & State University March 31. Five finalists were selected out of 51 submissions in poetry, short story and one-act play.

First-year student, Madeline Johnson, of Gray, Georgia, a double major in English literature and French, earned first-place for her poem “Ship of Theseus.” Johnson’s poem has been published in Issue VI of “The Young Writers Review.”

Sophomore Elizabeth Kohler from Brunswick, Georgia, placed second with her short story “Tethered,” and sophomore Savannah Colegrove of Peachtree Corners, Georgia, placed third with her poem “The Lull.”

Senior, Joshua Patterson, an English/creative writing major from Marietta, Georgia, took first place for his short story “Dirty Water.” Kennedy Welker of Thomaston, Georgia, placed second with her poem “Waving Man” and third with her short story “Senor Perez.”

During the ceremony, finalists read excerpts of their creative works and were awarded certificates and cash prizes. First-place winners each received $1,000. 

Fostering creative talent

Johnson said she appreciates the support she received from faculty. The encouraging environment at Georgia College makes her writing goals feel “real” and “achievable.”

“Studying at a liberal arts university prioritizes an interdisciplinary curriculum,” Johnson said. “Taking classes outside of English, exposed me to other experiences which influenced my writing,” 

She’s considering a career in law, teaching or publishing and hopes to publish a novel.

“I see writing in my future,” Johnson said. “It helps me accomplish my goals by preparing me to go into a career.”

She’s grateful to the donors of the award for their support by validating her writing skills and connecting her with a community of writers.

“It's an honor to receive this award as a first-year student,” Johnson said. “It means so much to me. Writing is something I can do now. It's validating.”

Patterson’s short story “Dirty Water,” first published in May 2025 by "Oyster River Pages” was also nominated for “Best American Short Stories 2026.” These honors validated his decision to pursue an English/creative writing major. 

Patterson also credits the faculty at Georgia College for their support and guidance in his writing journey.

“The faculty here are amazing,” he said. “My professors have been so helpful, especially Dr. Selgin, who poured himself into helping me with this story.”

Patterson believes that winning the Margaret Harvin Wilson Writing Award provides encouragement for aspiring writers. He plans to pursue a career in editing and publishing in the short term with a long-term goal of teaching.

Patterson advises fellow students to continue to submit their work and not give up, as persistence can lead to success.

The legacy of Margaret Harvin Wilson

The award was established in memory of Margaret Harvin Wilson (’34) who was the first in her family to attend college. She earned her degree from Georgia College in three years. While majoring in English and minoring in French, Wilson waited tables in the dining hall for discounted tuition while living in a free dormitory. As a senior, a teacher encouraged Harvin Wilson to enter a short-story contest. Winning first prize in 1933 for “Sympathy Speaks” gave her confidence to pursue a teaching career.

She married Leland Wilson in 1938. Their three daughters pursued careers in medicine, law and higher education.

The award exemplifies Wilson’s drive for students to explore new worlds through creative writing.

Header Image: Pictured Left to Right: Elizabeth Kohler, Savannah Colegrove, Kennedy Welker, GCSU President Cathy Cox, Madeline Johnson and Joshua Patterson. (Photo: Anna Gay Leavitt)