Credentials

"In my years as a professor of creative writing, I have rarely seen a writer who expresses more sincerity and commitment for reaching out to her readers than Colleen Wells. The topics she chooses are often difficult ones, but she approaches serious issues with humor and a desire to tell the bare truth. In the last years, I’ve been delighted to see Colleen's writing take wing as she becomes more confident and skilled in the written word."

--Louella Bryant, author of While in Darkness There is Light

"Colleen is a rare combination of talent and tenacity. She is unstoppable in her desire to grow as a writer— and while she might fiercely defend a choice she’s made in a piece, she never lets ego get in a way of an essay’s improvement. Her talent is nourished by her love of writing—and the joy that comes from connecting with a reader."

--Jim Poyser, former Managing Editor – NUVO

"Colleen Wells explores the private moments and motives of her subjects with an unflinching gaze, uncommon tenderness, and gentle humor. Her writing mines our frailties and foibles and discovers in our tenacious efforts to navigate the imperfect world a kind of grace."

–Laurie Seidler, former Editor – VerbSap.com

Awards

Honorable Mention, New Millennium Writings Contest January, 2007
Runner-up, Georgetown Review's annual writing contest – 2006
1st Place -Indiana Society of Professional Journalists Award –feature writing, NUVO, 2002
Semi-finalist, A Cup of Comfort for Adoptive Families (44 Published, Top 100 out of 1,200 submissions)
One of ten national finalists - Innovator’s Contest – Computerworld Magazine -1998

Education

MFA, Creative Writing, Spalding University
MA, English, Butler University
BA, English, Indiana University

Other

Member of AWP
Member of Bloomington Writer’s Guild
Volunteer – New Hope Family Shelter