EUGENE–Nine students about to earn Master of Fine Arts degrees from the University of Oregon’s famed Creative Writing Program will offer three different readings during the month of May that highlight their own work.

Free and open to the public, each of the readings will be held in the Alumni Lounge of Gerlinger Hall, 1468 University St., beginning at 8 p.m.

The events showcase student thesis projects developed during two years of intensive study of literary tradition and writing workshops. Students will read from either fiction projects or poetry projects.

The first reading, scheduled on Tuesday, May 16, will feature fiction writer Kristin Kirsch and poets Marie Carvalho and Michelle Santamaria.

The second reading, set for Monday, May 22, will feature fiction writer Paul Blaney and poets Suzanne Fisher and Becca Barniskis.

The final reading will take place on Tuesday, May 30, featuring fiction writers Shimon Tanaka and Matt Freidson, as well as poet Sandra Liu.

Associate Professor Dorianne Laux, who has worked with many of the students during their tenure at the university, says she encourages both the campus community and the community-at-large to attend the MFA thesis readings.

"A culmination of two years of study, these emerging voices allow us a glimpse into the minds and hearts of the next generation," she says.

For information, call the UO Creative Writing Program, (541) 346-0549.

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