Click here to 2015 ACFW Conference Booklet

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WELCOME
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elcome to the 2015 ACFW conference! We’ve been in the planning stages for this moment even before last year’s conference ended. This
conference has been on God’s heart far longer than that.
As you settle into the flow and intensity of the conference, please be aware
of this important detail: You are not alone. It’s one of the reasons ACFW
conducts an annual conference—so we can remind each other we’re not
alone in this pursuit.
From the first-timer to the seasoned veteran, we all need the reminder.
The ACFW conference is a place where you can connect with others who
understand the unique challenges and exceptional joys of the writing life.
You’ll network with people who understand the craft and the industry,
who hold similar dreams, who will offer a word of encouragement or a
path-altering opportunity.
You may sit across from an editor or agent who has been waiting for a
project just like yours. Or you may discover what has kept your project
from grabbing an editor’s interest. Both are valuable for the next steps of
your writing journey.
ACFW’s history proves this is a place to make lifelong friends, to hear
clearly from God about His direction for your writing, to learn or relearn
the place worship plays in the writing process, and to draw from a deep
well of community courage as you move forward.
So, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or
forsake you…” I Chronicles 28:20 NIV.
Readers wait for the stories you have to tell. This is the place to gain the
skills, tools, and courage you need to “do the work.”
We’re glad you’ve invested in your career by attending the ACFW conference. Thank you for the important role you will play in someone else’s journey while you’re here, too. It happens every year—writers, editors, agents,
industry professionals joining forces to encourage, inform, instruct, and
pray for one another. You are not alone.
To the work!
May you sense God’s presence at every turn,
The ACFW Executive Team
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a INTERVIEW WITH BILL MYERS, Keynote Speaker a
ACFW: It was while you were directing a play in Los Angeles that you were asked to write for a television show, which
led to writing for movies, which led to writing books. What
is it about that path that informed the way you tell stories
now?
BILL: Thanks to TV and film, I write pretending my audience has a channel selector in their hands and just as soon
as I bore them they’ll change channels on me. On the other
hand, theater taught me the importance of creating interesting and complex character interaction. You can’t cut away to
something else in the theater. It’s just actors relating. And if
you don’t learn that art quickly, then it’s back to waiting tables.
ACFW: You’ve been called one of the “most original minds
in supernatural suspense.” What’s the most trouble that
“original mind” has gotten you into?
BILL: I bring in something original. Producers or publishers
say, “This is out of the box.” I say, “Thanks!” They say, “Make
sure the receptionist validates your parking on your way out.”
ACFW: How does a young man shift from wanting to be a
dentist to filmmaking? Was it more than the x-ray connection?
BILL: I’d made a promise to say yes to whatever God asked
regardless of how “uninformed” He may be of the situation.
(Something only an eighteen-year-old male ego can do.) Then
I saw the fourth movie of my life. (I grew up in the Cascade
Mountains of Washington and didn’t get out much.) I’d seen
Pollyanna, Pinocchio and The Parent Trap. Now at the University of Washington I sat in the theater watching the fourth
movie of my life. It’s title…The Godfather. People were cheering and clapping when characters on the screen were getting
massacred. I walked out of that theater absolutely numb at the
power of cinema and told God he had to raise up people to
make movies to excite audiences about Him. But every time
I tried to educate Him it bounced back at me — which was
pretty funny since I didn’t even know how to watch a movie,
let along make one. Anyway, no film school in the country
would take me. The only one I could find was in Rome, Italy.
The rest was (and still is) a comedy of errors.
ACFW: How did studying both filmmaking and theology
abroad change your perspectives on both of those topics?
How did the settings—Italy and France, respectively—impact your education?
BILL: Story-wise, I learned to focus more on people…and less
on car chases, violence, and blowing up buildings.
ACFW: Name one of the unchecked items, trips, or accomplishments on your “dreaming big” list. What’s its significance for you?
BILL: I simply want to introduce Christians and non-Christians to the real Jesus Christ. Not the Sunday School flannel
graph Jesus. Not the frowny-face judgmental Jesus. But the
Jesus that loved us more than His own life. The Jesus that
doesn’t see what’s wrong with us, only what’s missing.
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As an author and filmmaker, Bill Myers’ work has won over 70 national and
international awards including the C.S. Lewis Honor Award. His books and videos
have sold 8 million copies including such children’s titles as McGee and Me, and
The Incredible Worlds of Wally McDoogle. He’s written, directed and starred in
Adventures in Odyssey radio episodes and is the voice of Jesus in the NIV Audio
Bible. As author of 124 books he has killed more than his fair share of trees. Some
of his favorite adult titles include Eli–a retelling of the Gospel as if it happened
today in America, and his latest, Child’s Play–a comedy that takes place in a
Mental Hospital 50 years in the future.
He is passionate about people understanding Christ’s deep love for them and has
just released a non-fiction book on the subject entitled, The Jesus Experience. His
film company, Amaris Media Int., has several motion picture and TV projects in
development. He lives near Malibu, California with three dogs, two daughters, and
one wife.
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a GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR CONFERENCE EXPERIENCE a
Wear Your Name Badge At All Times:
Your name badge is essential for networking and identifying
you as a registered attendee. It also serves as your meal package ticket. Admittance to sessions or meals will not be allowed without your name badge.
Appointments:
Conference Appointment Coordinator, Casey Miller, will
be available to answer your appointment questions and provide assistance. Please report to the appointments desk prior
to your appointment time. Staff will direct you from there.
Appointments take place during workshop times, and presenters understand you may have to leave or return during
their presentation, but please do so quietly so as to not disrupt the speaker or attendees. Please be considerate of your
appointment times. Arrive a little early so you don’t keep
anyone waiting. It’s imperative that you comply with the time
allotment and the timekeepers’ instructions. You don’t want
to infringe on another attendee’s appointment time. Etiquette
during appointments speaks highly of you as a professional.
Faculty-Hosted Meals:
Due to the size of the conference, there are no faculty-hosted
meals this year. Most of the agents, editors, mentors, and industry professionals make themselves available in the lobby
areas after the day’s events are concluded.
Prayer Room:
Attending Sessions:
Room assignments for each session are made according to
the number of attendees registered for each session. Please
arrive on time at your appointed workshop so you can find a
seat without interrupting the presenter. You should have received an email with handouts for your specific sessions you
signed up for. The schedule is tight to maximize your learning
opportunities, so please respect the speaker’s time when the
class is over. They most likely have responsibilities immediately following, and the conference staff will need to clear the
room to prepare for the next presentation.
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The prayer room is open throughout the course of the conference for all attendees. You can choose to pray alone, if you
prefer, or ask one of the prayer room volunteers to pray with
you. Because ACFW members come from a wide range of
denominational backgrounds, please be respectful of others’
emotions, needs, and traditions in the prayer room.
Babies and Children:
The ACFW conference is a professional event. Babies (even
nursing infants) and children are not allowed in any general
sessions, meals, worship sessions, workshops, or spotlights.
a GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR CONFERENCE EXPERIENCE a
Session Recordings:
Most of the conference sessions will be available for purchase.
This year, we’re proud to offer the addition of the Early Bird
session as well as the post-conference session for an additional fee. If you didn’t utilize the option during registration,
you may visit the ACFW website and order the conference on
cd while onsite and receive the discounted price. After conference, the price will increase, so don’t wait. Because of our
contract with the hotel and recording companies, recording
and/or videotaping is only allowed by ACFW or ACFW’s contracted recording company.
Fragrance Free:
Many conference attendees have serious sensitivities to
smells. Please refrain from using perfume, fragranced lotions,
oils, etc.
Thursday Night Genre Celebration:
Our first dinner together, we’ll celebrate genre and story.
Feel free to dress in costume, character, or the historical era
in which you write, if you choose. Start a conversation at the
dinner table over your character and make instant connections with other writers in your genre.
Friday Zone Breakfast:
Breakfast on Friday morning is designated as the Zone Breakfast. Make face-to-face connections with ACFW members
from your area. Tables will be designated by zones for this
meal. Swap stories and contact information, share local research interest, and establish friendships or the beginnings of
new ACFW local chapters.
Hotel:
Please remember to keep the noise level down in the halls at
all times, but especially at night or early morning. Also remember that your attitude toward the hotel staff reflects directly on the Christ you represent. Express gratitude, tip well,
and exercise patience.
Finding Help:
If you have questions or need assistance on site and don’t
know who to address, stop by the registration desk or conference office. Remember to relax and enjoy yourself. If you need
to skip a session to spend time alone with the Lord or be with
a friend, feel free to do so. This conference is for YOU.
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DEVELOPERS
WILDCATTERS
CATTLE
BARONS
FILMMAKERS
HARVESTERS
Y WING
INDUSTR
GROUND LEVEL
VANDERGRIFF
MCKEE
JONSSON
GLASSCOCK
HILL
MCCOMBS
LEADERSHIP WING
LADY BIRD
HOBBY
CARTER
RESTROOMS
ELEVATORS
REGISTRATION
DESK
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MIT
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MIT
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MIT
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2
3
MIT
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MIT
MIT
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MIT
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MIT
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MIT
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MADE-IN-TEXAS (MIT)
MIT
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MIT
MIT
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E NT RY
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ERP
RISE
ENTERPRISE
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ENTERPRISE
ENTERPRISE FOYER
ENTERPRISE
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2
ENTERPRISE
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OM
MAVERICK
ENTERPRISE
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DOOLIN
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ENTERPRISE
MAVERICK FOYER
ENTERPRISE
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ENTERPRISE
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a HOTEL FLOOR PLAN a
INTERVIEW WITH FRANCINE RIVERS,
a 2015 ACFW Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree
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ACFW: Do your story ideas simmer for a long time, or do
you “pedal fast” to keep up with the scenes and plotlines as
they unfold?
FRANCINE: My stories simmer. Sometimes I will get an idea
several years before I actually start writing. It’s part of the process of finding the heart of the story through the characters
who live and breathe in my head. Sometimes they just don’t
want to cooperate! Actually, writing is the most fun when the
characters take over and I’m just along for the ride.
I used to be able to finish a manuscript in a year. Now, I need
eighteen months, and that seems like a push. I think my characters are becoming more dysfunctional. Or I am! It takes a
long time to sort out their lives and find their way to what
God has for them (and me). I’m on the journey with them
because I use my writing as a way to work through various
issues or answer questions in my life. The project isn’t just a
w-i-p (work in progress). It’s a quest to find God’s perspective.
Or, at the very least, the lessons He is trying to teach me.
ACFW: When writers, publishers, and readers talk about
the power of story, your name and your books are mentioned as evidence. Excellence in storytelling is one factor.
What other elements would you name as reasons for the
impact of the books you write?
ACFW: What season in your life was the setting for a turning point, both personally and as an author?
FRANCINE: The turning point in my life was a move to Sebastopol, in northern California, a child’s invitation to church,
and finally getting the message. When I turned over my life
and will to God, everything changed. I couldn’t write for three
years, but God was showing me writing had actually become
an idol in my life. When I fell in love with Jesus and the Lord
became all-important to me, that’s when God gave back the
writing – for a new purpose. The book of Hosea had special
meaning to me because it broke through my walls. So I used
the story line to write my first book as a born-again Christian:
Redeeming Love. I wanted to “explain” to readers who had followed my career in the general market the difference between
eros and agape. God is passionate and an all-consuming fire.
FRANCINE: I think readers enjoy the stories because they
have many of the same questions and issues I have. We’re all
imperfect human beings. As Christians, we are in a constant
spiritual battle to live in and through and for Christ in a fallen
world. The closer we are to Jesus, the more we realize we just
don’t fit in. We begin to feel like aliens and the world sees us
as illegal – a group to cast out or shut up. I try to show those
real, day-to-day struggles in my characters; both the ones
who strive to walk with Jesus and the ones who don’t (yet)
know Him.
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New York Times bestselling author Francine Rivers has continued to win both
industry acclaim and reader loyalty around the globe. Her numerous bestsellers
include A Voice in the Wind, Redeeming Love, and the Marta’s Legacy series. Visit
her website at www.francinerivers.com.
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a Thursday schedule a
Thursday, September 17, 2015
TimeEvent
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Registration Desk
8:00 am – 1:30 pm
Early Bird Session – Bob Mayer
8:00 am – 11:00 pm
Prayer Room
2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
First-time Attendees Orientation
Location
Registration Desk-Enterprise Foyer
Innovation Ballroom ABC
Harvesters
Made In Texas 9-13
3:00 pm – 4:45 pm
General Session:
3:00 pm – 3:20 pm Welcome & Introduction
3:25 pm – 3:45 pm Prayer & Worship
3:45 pm – 4:00 pm Introduce keynote speaker – Bill Myers
4:00 pm – 4:45 pm Keynote address
Enterprise 1-6
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Genre Dinner (MBT announces Frasier winners)
Enterprise 1-6
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Spotlight On…Publishing Houses
Spotlight 1 – Abingdon
Spotlight 2 – Bethany House
Spotlight 3 – Guideposts
Spotlight 4 – HarperCollins
Spotlight 5 – Harvest House
Spotlight 6 – Howard
Agent Panel 1 – Karen Ball, Ann Byle, Rachelle Gardner,
Greg Johnson, Natasha Kern, Steve Laube,
Wendy Lawton, Mary Sue Seymour, and Karen Solem
8:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Spotlight On…Publishing Houses
Spotlight 7 – Love Inspired
Spotlight 8 – Monarch
Spotlight 9 – Revell Spotlight 10 – Tyndale
Spotlight 11 – Waterbrook
Spotlight 12 – Whitaker
Agent Panel 2 – Sue Brower, Linda Glaz, Michelle Grajkowski,
Julie Gwinn, Mary Keely, Jessica Kirkland,
Chip MacGregor, Tamela Hancock Murray, and Les Stobbe
Conference Office: Doolin
Sponsor tables/zone table: Maverick foyer
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McKee
Made in Texas 8
Vandergriff
Jonsson
Glasscock
Carter
Maverick
Glasscock
McKee
Jonsson
Made in Texas 8
Carter
Vandergriff
Maverick
a friday schedule a
Friday, September 18, 2015
Time
8:00 am – 8:45 am
8:45 am – 9:15 am
8:00 am – 11:30 pm
8:00 am – 11:45 am
2:00 pm – 5:30 pm
9:30 am - 11:45 am
2:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Event
Zone Breakfast
Worship, Devotions and Announcements
Prayer Room
Registration Desk
9:45 am – 11:45 am
Continuing Education Sessions Part One
CE 1 – Keys to Compelling Stories by Kristen Heitzmann
CE 2 – The Successful Series by Cynthia Hickey and Janice Thompson
CE 3 – In-Depth Brainstorming/Story Equation
by Rachel Hauck and Susan May Warren
CE 4 – The Irresistible Novel by Jeff Gerke
CE 5 – The Wildness of Writing with God by Allen Arnold
CE 6 – Tricks Rich Indies Use by Traci Hilton
CE 7 – Stress-Free Marketing by Amy Green and Melissa Tagg
Noon – 12:45 pm
12:50 pm – 1:45 pm
Lunch
12:50 pm – 1:00 pm Introduce keynote speaker
1:00 pm – 1:45 Keynote address – Bill Myers
2:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Continuing Education Sessions Part Two
CE 1 – Keys to Compelling Stories by Kristen Heitzmann
CE 2 – The Successful Series by Cynthia Hickey and Janice Thompson
CE 3 – In-Depth Brainstorming/Story Equation
by Rachel Hauck and Susan May Warren
CE 4 – The Irresistible Novel by Jeff Gerke
CE 5 – The Wildness of Writing with God by Allen Arnold
CE 6 – Tricks Rich Indies Use by Traci Hilton
CE 7 – Stress-Free Marketing by Amy Green and Melissa Tagg
8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Zone Meeting For Zone Directors, Area Coordinators, and Chapter Presidents
8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Non-Moderated Opportunities
Brainstorming Room 1 Enterprise 8
Brainstorming Room 2 Made in Texas 9-13
Brainstorming Room 3 Enterprise 7
9:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Worship & Write – optional musical worship
Appointment Desk
Location
Enterprise 1-6
Enterprise 1-6
Harvesters
Registration Desk-Enterprise Foyer
Leadership Wing/Made in Texas Foyer
Made in Texas 6-7
Made in Texas 4-5
Maverick
Made in Texas 8
Made in Texas 9-13
Enterprise 7
Enterprise 8
Enterprise 1-6
Enterprise 1-6
Made in Texas 6-7
Made in Texas 4-5
Maverick
Made in Texas 8
Made in Texas 9-13
Enterprise 7
Enterprise 8
Maverick
Enterprise 1-6
Conference Office: Doolin
Sponsor tables/zone table: Maverick foyer
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a saturday schedule a
Saturday, September 19, 2015
Time
8:45 am – 9:20 am
8:00 am – 11:30 pm
8:15 am – 12:15 pm
1:45 pm – 3:30 pm
9:30 am - noon
1:45 pm – 4:45 pm
8:00 am – 8:45 am
Event
Worship, Devotions and Announcements
Prayer Room
Registration Desk
9:30 am – 10:30 am
Workshops
WS 1 – The Plotting Puzzle by Lisa Jordan and Mindy Obenhaus
WS 2 – 26 Keys to Improved Craft by Shannon Vanatter
WS 3 – Help Me, I Need an Agent by Karen Ball and Erin Taylor Young
WS 4 – Self Publishing Q&A panel
WS 5 – Basic Contract Negotiations by Chip MacGregor
WS 6 – Taming the Social Media Beast by Dani Pettrey and Becky Wade
WS 7 – Breaking Out of Midlist by Wendy Lawton
Made in Texas 4-5
Made in Texas 8
Enterprise 7
Maverick
Made in Texas 6-7
Made in Texas 9-13
Enterprise 8
11:00 am – noon
Workshops
WS 8 – Writing YA in the CBA by Mary Weber
WS 9 – The Suspense Writer’s Toolkit by Rick Acker
WS 10 – Historical Research without the headaches by Sarah Sundin
WS 11 – The Power of Story by Beth Vogt
WS 12 – He Giggled? by Ronie Kendig
WS 13 – How to Write for ABA by Natasha Kern, Karen Solem & Sue Brower
Made in Texas 4-5
Maverick
Enterprise 7
Made in Texas 9-13
Made in Texas 8
Enterprise 8
12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
1:45 pm – 2:00 pm
Lunch
Awards ceremony rehearsal for all Carol Award and Genesis finalists
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Workshops
WS 14 – Writing Is a Decision by Kathleen Y’Barbo Turner
WS 15 – Don’t Paint by Numbers by Dr. Richard Mabry
WS 16 – Working with Your Agent by Tamela Hancock Murray and Steve Laube
WS 17 – Show Me A Story by Deborah Raney
WS 18 – 10 Awkward Questions by Rachel Hauck & Susan May Warren
WS 19 – Hitting the Refresh Button on Your Career Panel
WS 20 – Reader Focused Marketing by Rachelle Gardner & Karen Witemeyer
Appointment Desk
Location
Enterprise 1-6
Harvesters
Registration Desk-Enterprise Foyer
Leadership Wing/Made in Texas Foyer
Breakfast
Enterprise 1-6
Enterprise 1-6
Enterprise 1-6
Made in Texas 6-7
Made in Texas 4-5
Enterprise 7
Made in Texas 9-13
Maverick
Made in Texas 8
Enterprise 8
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Workshops
WS 21 – Refining the Novel Proposal by Chip MacGregor
Enterprise 7
WS 22 – Changing Face of Christian Fiction by Daisy Hutton, Becky Monds & Katie Bond Made in Texas 9-13
WS 23 – Rejected book Panel
Made in Texas 4-5
WS 24 – All About Agents by Wendy Lawton
Made in Texas 6-7
WS 25 – 1st Year of Do’s and Don’ts Panel
Maverick
WS 26 – Write from the Deep by Karen Ball and Erin Taylor Young
Enterprise 8
WS 27 – Metadata Primer by Lacy Williams and Randy Ingermanson
Made in Texas 8
6:00 pm – 9:30 pm
ACFW Annual Awards Gala
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm: Dinner
7:45 pm – 9:30 pm: Awards Presentation
Conference Office: Doolin
Sponsor tables/zone table: Maverick foyer
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a Sunday Schedule a
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Time
8:00 am – noon
9:00 am – noon
8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Event
PS session – Bob Mayer
Conference Office
Prayer Room
Location
Maverick
Doolin
Harvesters
a Course Level Definitions a
As you review the Continuing Education Session and Workshop Elective options available for this year’s Annual Conference, you will see that each class is marked with a Level. The
Levels are a tool to help you determine which classes will be
most beneficial FOR YOU.
Sessions are open to any conferee. However, conferees will
benefit most by selecting workshops and Continuing Education sessions nearest their current skill level and experience as
noted in the descriptions below:
Level Definitions
All Grades
These sessions focus on the spiritual life of the writer, or such
specifics as genres, social media, etc. that would benefit all
writers.
Freshman
These sessions will best benefit writers with some experience
writing and little to no conference history.
Sophomore
These sessions will best benefit novelists with moderate writing experience. The material will be presented for those writers making progress on a novel or novels. These classes will
delve deeper into strengthening the elements of a good manuscript and proposal as well as help identify the areas a writer
needs to improve to help advance his/her career.
Junior
These sessions will best benefit novelists with significant writing experience, conference history, contest finals or wins, and
editorial or agent interest. The material in these sessions will
be beneficial to those authors who are published. In these
classes you will learn the next step in publication as well as
continue to strengthen your prose and publishing knowledge.
Senior
Writers who are published or recently contracted will get the
most from these classes. The material presented in these sessions are geared toward multi-published authors, career novelists. Classes will also cover organization, marketing, public
relations and speaking, and the business side of writing.
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a Brainstorming a
What Does the Protagonist Want? This is really key
to understanding the character’s journey. If they don’t
want anything, then what drives them? What will be the
obstacles? What causes tension? Based on the story you
want to tell, what could be the driving “want” of your
protagonist?
Wound, Lie and Fear, Oh My! What’s the wound, or
dark moment, of the protagonist’s past? Abuse? Divorce?
An accident? Make it detailed and personal. This wound
is what gets healed along the way. But because of this
wound, the protagonist has developed a lie about life,
about God, about themselves or others. (Pick one. Or
two if you want.) The lie leads to a fear. Think about
wounds or dark moments. What lies and fears can they
inspire? Now figure out this equation for your character.
For the hero and heroine if writing a romance.
By Rachel Hauck
ACFW is introducing something new this year at the conference - rooms set aside for writers to gather and brainstorm.
We’ve also changed Harp & Bowl to Worship & Write this
year. We want to create space, and an atmosphere, for you to
utilize what you’re learning at conference real time and do
some writing or brainstorming.
Why wait until you go home to jot down story ideas and plot
points?
I’ve had a brainstorm and craft partner for a lot of years. One
of the tricks we’ve learned along the way it not to spitball high
level ideas, but to really dig deep to get to the heart of a story.
We call it the Story Equation. While initial ideas may change
along the way, here are a few tips that solidify a firm first
foundation.
Why? This is such a key word in developing a story.
Always ask “Why?” It’s not enough Mary wants to fall in
love, we must know why? Or more likely, why she doesn’t
want to fall in love. Why allows you to dig deep and find
the proper motivation. Usually it ties into the wound, lie
and fear.
Secret Desire. This is my favorite element of brainstorming a character. This is the inner longing that is dying to
get out and be seen. It’s what drives the character’s wants.
It’s what drives them to accept the call to the journey and
to ultimately overcome fear and turn the lie into a truth.
What can they do in the end they couldn’t do in the
beginning? Another a key question. When I’ve developed all other character aspects, and feel like I’m good to
go, I ask, “What will they do in the end…?” And usually
I don’t know! So I go back, and look at all my character’s
elements and formulate that end of story triumph. It
doesn’t have to be great or grand, but simply reflect the
character change. If he couldn’t say “I love you” in the
beginning that’s what he’ll be able to do in the end. And
it’ll take a whole story to get him there.
Have fun. Go brainstorm something brilliant.
Story Question. When brainstorming, think of the
story question. While dreaming up The Wedding Dress,
I asked, “What if one dress was worn by four women
over a hundred years?” Not rocket science but it created
a picture in my mind. Or with the royal wedding series,
I asked, “What if an American girl was invited to a royal
wedding and fell in love? With a prince?” So, always have
the “What If ” question when brainstorming.
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a agents a
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Karen Ball
Steve Laube Agency
Michelle Grajkowski
Three Seas
Literary Agency
Sue Brower
Natasha Kern
Literary Agency
Julie Gwinn
Seymour Agency
Ann Byle
Credo
Communications LLC
Greg Johnson
WordServe Literary
Rachelle Gardner
Books & Such
Literary Agency
Mary Keeley
Books & Such
Literary Agency
Linda Glaz
Hartline
Literary Agency
Natasha Kern
Natasha Kern
Literary Agency
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a agents a
Jessica Kirkland
The Blythe Daniel
Agency
Mary Sue Seymour
The Seymour Agency
Steve Laube
Steve Laube Agency
Karen Solem
Spencerhill
Associates, Ltd.
Wendy Lawton
Books and Such
Literary Agency
Les Stobbe
Les Stobbe Agency
Chip MacGregor
MacGregor Literary
Tamela Hancock Murray
Steve Laube Agency
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a Continuing Education Sessions a
CE 1
Keys to Compelling Stories
CE 5
The Wildness of Writing with God
Level: Freshman
Presented by: Kristen Heitzmann
Level: All Grades
Presented by: Allen Arnold
Learn to craft and develop the elements that give storytelling
the depth and experience readers and publishers can’t resist.
A Rare, Foundational Journey into Creating with the Creator
CE 2
The Successful Series
Level: Sophomore
Presented by: Cynthia Hickey and Janice Thompson
Hook ’em and leave ’em begging for more by writing, publishing and marketing a successful series, one that will bring in
royalties for years to come.
CE 3
In-Depth Brainstorming/Story Equation
Level: Sophomore
Presented by: Rachel Hauck and Susan May Warren
Ten Elements To Get Your Story Started In The Right Direction! Using the revolutionary Story Equation, Rachel and
Susie will walk you through core elements that will set the
foundation for any story. Whether you’re a beginning or
multi-published author, a plotter or pantser, this continuing
education session will add critical tools to your storytelling
tool belt.
CE 6
Tricks Rich Indies Use
Level: Junior
Presented by: Traci Hilton
Learn the tricks and techniques high earning indies have used
to turn their writing passion into their full time job.
CE 7
Stress-Free Marketing
Level: Junior/Senior
Presented by: Amy Green and Melissa Tagg
Learn how to build your platform and promote your books
without fear or freaking out.
CE 4
The Irresistible Novel
Level: Sophomore/Junior
Presented by: Jeff Gerke
How to free yourself from the paralyzing “rules” of fiction and
capitalize on the brain chemistry of reader engagement to create the irresistible novel.
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a editors a
Beth Adams
Tony Collins
Dawn Anderson
Andrea Doering
Shana Asaro
Susan Downs
Howard Books
Kregel Publications
Love Inspired
a
Guideposts Publications
Melissa Endlich
Stephanie Broene
Daisy Hutton
Tyndale House Publishers
ACFW C onfere n ce
Revell/Baker Publishing
Jessica Barnes
Guideposts Publications
18 a
Monarch Books and Lion
Fiction at Lion Hudson
Da ll a s 20 1 5
Love Inspired
Thomas Nelson Publishers
a editors a
Tina James
Love Inspired
David Long
Becky Philpott
Zondervan
Raela Schoenherr
Bethany House
Publishers
Bethany House
Publishers
Shannon Marchese
Shaina Turner
Ami McConnell
Christine Whitaker
Waterbrook/Multnomah
Publishing Group
Howard Books
Tyndale House Publishers
Whitaker House Publishers
Kim Moore
Harvest House Publishers
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20 a
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a mentors a
a Specialty appointments a
Bonnie Calhoun
Rick Acker
Author
Attorney
Ronie Kendig
Audra Jennings
Dani Pettrey
Ken Raney
Ramona Richards
Rusty Shelton
Gayle Roper
Jeane Wynn
Author
Author
Editor/Author
Author
Publicity Manager
Illustrator/Designer
Founder/President,
Shelton Interactive
President
Wynn-Wynn Media
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a ACFW Chapters a
22 a
Name State Region
ACFW Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania
MidAtlantic
ACFW-Virginia
VirginiaMidAtlantic
ACFW Central Florida Chapter
Florida
Southeast
ACFW North Georgia Chapter
Buford, GA
Southeast
ACFW South Carolina Chapter
Anderson, SC
Southeast
ACFW Chicago Chapter
Chicago, IL
Midwest
ACFW Great Lakes Chapter
Michigan
Midwest
ACFW Indiana Chapter
Indiana
Midwest
ACFW Minnesota Chapter
Minneapolis, MN
Midwest
ACFW WI Southeast Chapter
Burlington, WI
Midwest
ACFW Alamo City Chapter
San Antonio, TX
Southwest
ACFW Arkansas Chapter
Little Rock, Arkansas
Southwest
ACFW Central Texas Chapter
Austin, TX
Southwest
ACFW DFW Chapter
Dallas/Ft. Worth
Southwest
ACFW Houston
Houston, TX
Southwest
ACFW Louisiana Chapter
Bossier City, LA
Southwest
ACFW Oklahoma City Chapter
Oklahoma City, OK
Southwest
ACFW The Woodlands Chapter
The Woodlands, TX
Southwest
ACFW Kansas City West Chapter
Kansas
Central
ACFW MozArks Chapter
Central
Central
ACFW Southcentral Kansas Chapter
Wichita, KS
Central
ACFW CO Western Slope
Rifle, CO
Rocky Mtns
ACFW Colorado Springs Chapter
Co Springs, CO
Rocky Mtns
ACFW North Denver Chapter
Denver, CO
Rocky Mtns
ACFW South Denver Chapter
Parker, CO
Rocky Mtns
ACFW Arizona Chapter
Arizona
West
ACFW Orange County CA
Santa Ana, CA
West
ACFW San Francisco Bay Chapter
Palo Alto, CA
West
ACFW Portland/Vancouver Chapter
Portland, OR
Northwest
ACFW Mid-Tennessee
Nashville, TN
Ohio Valley
ACFW Ohio Chapter
New Carlisle, OH
Ohio Valley
ACFW Beyond the Borders
Online
The World
ACFW C onfe re n ce
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Dall as 20 1 5
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a 2015 CAROL AWARD FINALISTS a
The 2015 Carol Awards are ACFW’s recognition for the best
Christian fiction published by traditional publishing houses in
the previous calendar year.
Historical Romance
For Such a Time by Kate Breslin
(Bethany House [Baker] Publishing,
editors Raela Schoenherr, Luke Hinrichs)
With Every Breath by Elizabeth Camden
(Bethany House [Baker] Publishing, editor Raela Schoenherr)
While Love Stirs by Lorna Seilstad
(Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group,
editors Andrea Doering, Jessica English)
Contemporary
Last Family Standing by Jennifer AlLee
(Abingdon Press, editor Ramona Richards)
Lizzy & Jane by Katherine Reay
(HarperCollins Christian Publishing,
editors Becky Monds, L.B. Norton)
The Story Keeper by Lisa Wingate
(Tyndale House, editors Sarah Mason, Jan Stob)
Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Poison Town by Creston Mapes
(David C. Cook, editor L.B. Norton)
A Way of Escape by Serena B. Miller
(independently published, editor Connie Troyer)
A Cry from the Dust by Carrie Stuart Parks
(HarperCollins Christian Publishing,
editors Amanda Bostic, Natalie Hanemann)
Historical
Chateau of Secrets by Melanie Dobson
(Howard [Simon & Schuster], editor Beth Adams)
Saving Amelie by Cathy Gohlke
(Tyndale House, editors Sarah Mason, Stephanie Broene)
What Follows After by Dan Walsh
(Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group,
editor Andrea Doering)
novella
An October Bride by Katie Ganshert
(HarperCollins Christian Publishing, editor Becky Philpott)
I’ll be Home for Christmas from Where Treetops Glisten
by Sarah Sundin, (Waterbrook/Multnomah [Random House],
editor Shannon Marchese)
A Cowboy Unmatched by Karen Witemeyer
(Bethany House [Baker] Publishing, editor Karen Schurrer)
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romance
Speculative
The Wishing Season by Denise Hunter
(HarperCollins Christian Publishing,
editors Ami McConnell, L.B. Norton)
Orphan’s Song by Gillian Bronte Adams
(Enclave Publishing, editor Steve Laube)
Love Redeemed by Kelly Irvin
(Harvest House Publishers, editor Kathleen Kerr)
Somebody Like You by Beth K. Vogt
(Howard [Simon & Schuster], editor Jessica Wong)
romantic suspense
Under a Turquoise Sky by Lisa Carter
(Abingdon Press, editor Ramona Richards)
No One to Trust by Lynette Eason
(Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group,
editor Andrea Doering)
Deceived by Irene Hannon
(Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group,
editor Jennifer Leep)
short novel
Second Chance Summer by Irene Hannon,
(Love Inspired [Harlequin], editor Melissa Endlich)
Rescuing the Texan’s Heart by Mindy Obenhaus
(Love Inspired [Harlequin], editor Melissa Endlich)
The Wyoming Heir by Naomi Rawlings
(Love Inspired [Harlequin], editor Elizabeth Mazer)
A Time to Die by Nadine Brandes
(Enclave Publishing, editors Jeff Gerke, Karen Ball)
Jupiter Winds by C.J. Darlington
(independently published, editor Carol Kurtnz Darlington)
Young Adult
This Quiet Sky by Joanne Bischof
(independently published,
editors Amanda Dykes, Denise Harmer)
Samantha Sanderson at the Movies by Robin Caroll
(HarperCollins Christian Publishing,
editors Kim Childress, Mary Hassinger)
Storm Siren by Mary Weber
(HarperCollins Christian Publishing, editor Becky Monds)
Debut Novel
Playing Saint by Zachary Bartels
(HarperCollins Christian Publishing, editor Amanda Bostic)
For Such a Time by Kate Breslin
(Bethany House [Baker] Publishing,
editors Raela Schoenherr, Luke Hinrichs)
The Hesitant Heiress by Dawn Crandall
(Whitaker House, editor Courtney Hartzel)
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a 2015 GENESIS AWARD FINALISTS a
The Genesis Contest is the ACFW contest for unpublished Christian fiction writers. Genesis has a number
of categories/genres to enter, the opportunity for unbiased feedback on writers’ work by published authors
and experienced judges, and the chance for the category finalists to have their work read by Christian publishing house editors and literary agents. ACFW has been pleased to see many previous category winners
and finalists move further in their writing careers to become published authors.
Contemporary
Lindsay Harrel
Christina Suzann Nelson
Carol Raj Romance
Courtney Ballinger
Bethany Kaczmarek
Jeanne Takenaka Historical
Jeannine Brummett
Carolyn Hill
Joanna Davidson Politano Romantic Suspense
Janice Boekhoff
Sarah Hamaker
Jackie Layton Historical Romance
Elizabeth Ann Boyles
Catherine Ensley
Elizabeth Lukinuk Short Novel
Linda Rodante
Preslaysa Williams (double finalist) Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Janice Boekhoff
Don Brobst
Joseph R. Courtemanche Novella
Cindy Amos
Becky Lynne Howard
Chandra Lynn Smith Speculative
T.J. Akers
Carol Eaton
Deb Read Young Adult
Megan Besing
Kerry Johnson
Sarah Tipton
2014 First Impression Winners
The First Impressions contest gives unpublished writers the opportunity to have the first five pages of their
Christian fiction manuscript evaluated by an industry professional.
Contemporary - Kiersti Plog
Romance - Tanara McCauley
Historical - Cindy Stewart
Romantic Suspense - Lisa Bumpus
Historical Romance - Deb Garland
Short Novel - Linda Truesdell
Mystery/Suspense/Thriller - Don Brobst
Speculative - Katie Lohr
Novella - Anna Weaver Hurtt
Young Adult - Audrey Appenzeller
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a awards a
2014 Editor of the Year–Vicki Crumpton, Volunteer of the Year–Martha Rogers,
Agent of the Year–Chip MacGregor, Mentor of the Year–Julie Klassen
2015 Nominees
Mentor of the Year
nominees:
Lorraine Beatty
Carole Cudnik
Ronie Kendig
Nancy Kimball
Joy Avery Melville
DiAnn Mills
Allison Pittman
Cara Putman
Deborah Raney
Leslie Stobbe
Jan Thompson
Kathleen Y’Barbo Turner
Beth K. Vogt
Lacy Williams
Cheryl Wyatt
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Mentor of the Year
Finalists:
Joy Avery Melville
DiAnn Mills
Jan Thompson
Editor of the Year
Finalists:
Sandie Bricker
Bethany Kaczmarek
Ramona Richards
Agent of the Year
Finalists:
Steve Laube – Steve Laube Agency
Wendy Lawton – Books & Such
Literary Agency
Mary Sue Seymour – The Seymour Agency
a awards a
2014 Carol Award Winners
2014 Genesis Award Winners
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a workshop descriptions a
WS 1: The Plotting Puzzle
Piecing Together Your Story
Presented by: Lisa Jordan and Mindy Obenhaus
Level: Freshman
Beginning a new book is like starting a puzzle with the pieces
scattered across the table, but The Plotting Puzzle workshop
will help you to understand how to put your story together
one piece at a time from those essential four corners to the
framework and every detail in between.
WS 2: 26 Keys to Improved Craft
Presented by: Shannon Vannatter
Level: Sophomore
This class covers 26 keys to get writers over the hump to
publishable level.
WS 3: Help Me, I Need an Agent!
(And Help, I HAVE one!)
Presented by: Karen Ball and Erin Taylor Young
Level: Sophomore
Agent Karen Ball and client Erin Taylor Young will lead a
frank discussion about the author/client relationship—how to
find each other, how to effectively work together, how the age
of indie publishing affects authors and clients, and what to do
when things go wrong.
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WS 4: Self Publishing Q&A
Presented by: Panel of Hallee Bridgeman, Cynthia Hickey,
Randy Ingermanson, Janice Thompson, Christy Barritt, and
Traci Hilton
Level: Sophomore/Junior
Best-selling indie Christian authors on a Q&A panel about
self publishing in the Christian fiction world.
WS 5: The Basics of Contract Negotiation
Presented by: Chip MacGregor
Level: Sophomore
What every writer needs to know before signing a publishing
contract.
WS 6: Taming the Social Media Beast
Presented by: Dani Pettrey and Becky Wade
Level: Junior
Sharing effective tips to tame the social media beast.
WS 7: Breaking Out of the Midlist
Presented by: Wendy Lawton
Level: Senior
Innovative strategies for the novelist whose books seem to be
consigned to midlist doldrums or those worried there won’t
be a next contract offer.
a workshop descriptions (continued) a
WS 8: Writing YA in the CBA
WS 12: He…Giggled?
Solid tips for crafting and marketing God-honoring stories to
capture the interest of publishers and buyers, and the hearts
of teens.
Don’t let your gender betray your characters—learn how to
make your scenes reflect the POV character’s gender with
practical tips based on scientific facts!
WS 9: The Suspense Writer’s Toolbox
WS 13: How to Write for ABA While Keeping Your CBA
Values
Presented by: Mary Weber
Level: All Grades
Presented by: Rick Acker
Level: All Grades
Add suspense to any genre by learning to use the tools in the
suspense writer’s toolbox.
WS 10: Historical Research Without the Headaches
Presented by: Sarah Sundin
Level: All Grades
Presented by: Ronie Kendig
Level: All Grades
Presented by: Sue Brower, Natasha Kern, and Karen Solem
Level: Junior/Senior
As opportunities for fiction writers within CBA are shrinking
both with publishers and with CBA stores, learn how to write
the kind of story you are committed to but for the general
marketplace.
If you want to provide accurate historical details without
losing focus on your story, join us to explore principles of
conducting research, creative resources to explore, and how
to document and organize your material.
WS 11: The Power of Story Question
Presented by: Beth Vogt
Level: Sophomore
Developing your novel’s Story Question so that it fuels the
development of your novel from Chapter One to The End.
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a workshop descriptions (continued) a
WS 14: Writing is a Decision
WS 19: Pushing the Refresh Button on Your Career
10 Things I Wish My 1996 Self Had Known explores the myth
and reality of the writing life in a fresh and candid way, giving
new writers hope that no matter how little you know at the
beginning, God can use it all to move you down the path to
publication.
This panel will feature seasoned CBA professionals, and the
topic will cover how to push the refresh button on your writing career.
Presented by: Kathleen Y’Barbo
Level: Freshman
WS 15: Don’t Paint By Numbers
Presented by: Dr. Richard Mabry
Level: Sophomore
Good painters don’t paint by the numbers, and good authors
don’t write “by the numbers,” either.
WS 16: Working with Your Agent
Presented by: Steve Laube and Tamela Hancock Murray
Level: Freshman/Sophomore
Veteran agents Steve Laube and Tamela Hancock Murray
help authors get the most out of their relationships with their
agents.
WS 17: SHOW Me a Story: Writing Cinematically
Presented by: Deborah Raney
Level: Sophomore
Using movie techniques—writing cinematically—is a great
way to be sure you are SHOWING instead of telling.
WS 18: 10 Awkward Questions
Presented by: Rachel Hauck and Susan May Warren
Level: Senior
10 Awkward Questions every author doesn’t want to ask
about their publishing career. (And honest answers from
multi-published authors.)
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Presented by: Panel of Brandilyn Collins, Anita Higman, and
DiAnn Mills
Level: Senior
WS 20: Reader-Focused Marketing: What’s in it for
THEM?
Presented by: Rachelle Gardner and Karen Witemeyer
Level: Senior
Shift the self-promotion paradigm from used car salesman
(Buy my book!) to beloved benefactor (What can I give you?).
a workshop descriptions (continued) a
WS 21: Refining Your Novel Proposal
Presented by: Chip MacGregor
Level: Sophomore
WS 25: Your First Year:
Dos, Don’ts & the Lines in Between
What are the ten things you can do to move your novel proposal from “good” to “great”?
Presented by: Panel of Kristy Cambron, Sarah Ladd, Katherine Reay, and Mary Weber
Level: Sophomore/Junior
WS 22: The Changing Face of Christian Fiction
Fresh off their first year in the Christian publishing industry, a
panel of authors share the Dos and Don’ts once a new author
has signed on the dotted line.
Presented by: Katie Bond and Becky Philpott
Level: Junior
Industry insiders with a passion for fiction written by Christians will talk about the unique opportunities and challenges
in the Christian Fiction space.
WS 23: Have a Rejected Book?
We Can Give it New Life!
Presented by: Panel of Kathryn Albright, Patricia Bradley,
Scarlett Dunn, Anslee Urban, Kelly Irvin, Dana Lynn, and
Mary Sue Seymour
Level: Sophomore/Junior
Writers will learn how to turn a rejected book into an accepted book.
WS 26: Write From The Deep
Presented by: Karen Ball and Erin Taylor Young
Level: Junior/Senior
In this session based on Ezekiel 2:1-3:22, Ball and Young will
challenge writers to go deep with God in their call and their
craft, for it is in the Deep that writers find power and renewal.
WS 27: The Data Behind the Book: Metadata Primer
Presented by: Randy Ingermanson and Lacy Williams
Level: Junior/Senior
Everything you need to know about keywords, categories,
titles, blurbs and book interiors and how they can impact
your book sales.
WS 24: All About Agents
Presented by: Wendy Lawton
Level: Sophomore/Junior
Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Working
with an Agent.
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a executive board a
2015 Executive Board members (left to right): (front row) Brandilyn Collins, Colleen Coble, Gail Martin
(back row) Rachel Hauck, Randy Ingermanson, Deborah Raney, Cara Putman, Allen Arnold.
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a conference volunteers a
Thank you to the many who help make our conference a great success!
Jerusha Agen
Karla Akins
Jennifer AlLee
Narelle Atkins
Linda Attaway
Laura Aulenbacher
Jodie Bailey
Courtney Ballinger
Crystal Barnes
Patricia Beal
Lorraine Beatty
Kathy Beliveau
Misty Beller
Janice Boekhoff
Kate Breslin
Barbara Britton
Kristy Cambron
Lisa Carter
Lee Carver
Vannetta Chapman
Jan Cline
Colleen Coble
Peggy Consolver
Telena Tanara Contreras
Eileen Copeland
36 a
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Julie Cosgrove
Connilyn Cossette
Joe Courtemanche
Marie Coutu
Dawn Crandall
Katie Cushman
Jennifer Cvelbar
Becky Dean
Angie Dicken
Susanne Dietze
Ruth Douthitt
Jennifer Dyer
Jerry Eicher
Nancy Farrier
Kari Fischer
Janette Foreman
Catherine Frappier
Linda Fulkerson
Linda Goodnight
Valerie Goree
Helen Gray
Anne Greene
Mary Hamilton
Shae Hamrick
Lindsay Harrel
Barbara Harrison
Teresa Haugh
Casey Herringshaw
Traci Hilton
Jan Hixson
Teresa Holder
Rosanna Huffman
Kelly Irvin
Christine Johnson
Linda Baten Johnson
Jill Johnston
Lisa Jordan
Deb Kastner
Virelle Kidder
Anthea Kotlan
Sara Larson
Sharon Lavy
Elizabeth Ludwig
J.A. Marx
D’Ann Mateer
Pamela S. Meyers
Pam Meyers
Carol Moncado
Natalie Monk
Leah Morgan
a conference volunteers (continued) a
Thank you to the many who help make our conference a great success!
Michele Morris
Ane Mulligan
Christina Suzann Nelson
Mindy Obenhaus
Kelly Pankratz
Dani Pettrey
Rachael Phillips
Ken Raney
Donna Rice
Carmen E. Richards
Martha Rogers
Gayle Roper
Cynthia Ruchti
Kim Sawyer
Chandra Lynn Smith
Chandra Smith
Davalynn Spencer
Jeannine Spriggs
Betsy St. Amant
Chris Storm-Rustowicz
Jeanne Takenaka
Diane Tatum
Linda Thompson
Delores Topliff
Patricia Trainum
Darlene Turner
Beth Vogt
Leah Walker
Natalie Walters
Suzie Waltner
Terri Wangard
Rebecca Waters
Cathy West
Allison Wilson
Karen Witemeyer
Jaime Wright
Stacey Zink
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a friends of acfw a
GOLD
Denise Hunter
Clarice James
Lisa Jordan
Ronie Kendig
Natasha Kern
Mary Ann Kerr
Virelle Kidder
Jane Kirkpatrick
Suzanne Kuhn
Kariss Lynch
Chip MacGregor
Bob Madison
Ginger
Marcinkowski
Gail Gaymer Martin
Aaron McCarver
Henry McLaughlin
Saundra
Staats McLemore
Edie Melson
Dana Mentink
DiAnn Mills
Carol
McAdams Moore
Christen
Civiletto Morris
Ane Mulligan
J.M. Norwood
Rondi Olson
Carrie
Fancett Pagels
Dani Pettrey
Allie Pleiter
Donalyn Powell
Deborah Raney
Katherine Reay
Donna K. Rice
Ian Acheson
Rick Acker
Melina Ali
Matthew Anderson
Joe Bowden
Sue Brower
Marci J. Burke
Bonnie S. Calhoun
Colleen Coble
Brandilyn Collins
Stan Crader
Kathryn Cushman
Linda Brooks Davis
Rose Dee
Lillian Duncan
Lynette Eason
Loretta Eidson
Danica Favorite
Tamara Fickas
Suzanne
Woods Fisher
David A. Fitzwater
Terri L. Gillespie
Kimberly Gilliland
Cathy Gohlke
Valerie
Massey Goree
Shirley E. Gould
Shelley Shepard Gray
Kathy Harris
Rachel Hauck
Courtney Hilbert
Traci Tyne Hilton
Lynn Hobbs
Patricia Howell
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Donna Rich
Ramona Richards
Karen H. Richardson
Francine Rivers
Sandra Robbins
Martha Rogers
Gayle Roper
Cynthia Ruchti
Roxanne Rustand
Kim Vogel Sawyer
Marc Schooley
Lanny Smith
Fred St Laurent
Les Stobbe
Laura Stolmeier
Chris Storm
Christine Sunderland
Melissa Tagg
Janice Thompson
Kristena Tunstall
Darlene L. Turner
Judy Vandiver
Beth Vogt
Gary Wade
Becky Wade
John
Matthew Walker
Susan May Warren
Gina Welborn
Cass Wessel
Linda Wichman
Susan Wingate
Daphne Woodall
Kathleen
Y’Barbo-Turner
Glynn Young
Mark Zona
a friends of acfw a
SILVER
Carolyne Aarsen
Scott J. Abel
Tessa Afshar
Johnnie Alexander
Michelle Arch
Cathleen Armstrong
Janet Lee Barton
Renee Blare
Patricia Bradley
Jeannine Brummett
Vicki Buchhold
Janice Cantore
Hannah Conway
Dawn Crandall
Ruth Douthitt
Anita Mae Draper
Tina Ann Ellerby
Mary Ellis
Marianne Evans
David Fry
Ann H. Gabhart
Sarah Hamaker
Emilie Hendryx
Casey Herringshaw
Cynthia Herron
Nancy Ellen Hird
Judy Hixson
Melinda Inman
Patrick Johnston
Christa Kinde
Sara Larson
Loree Lough
Elizabeth Ludwig
Susan Lyttek
Mary Manners
J.A. Marx
Anne Mateer
Rick Mayhew
Patti Jo Moore
Janelle Mowery
Elizabeth Musser
Steve Myers
Mary Netreba
Carol Ramirez
Dennis Ricci
Linda Robinson
Amber Schamel
Donna Schlachter
Chandra Lynn Smith
Christy
LaShea Smith
Virginia Smith
Charlotte Snead
Davalynn Spencer
Kathryn Springer
Sarah Sundin
C. Kevin Thompson
Norma Gail
Thurston-Holtman
Marilyn Turk
Kathy Tyers
Cindy Woodsmall
BRONZE
Mesu Andrews
Angela E. Arndt
David Arp
Marie Bast
Lorraine Beatty
Kathy Beliveau
Shari Lynn Brown
Ralene Burke
Kristy Cambron
Amy Clipston
Paul Cooke
Lisa Crayton
Scarlett Dunn
Winnie Griggs
Penny Haavig
Eva Maria Hamilton
Linda Hammett
Kathleen Helgesen
Mary Hicks
Mary Keeley
Loraine Kemp
Patricia Reece Krugel
Michelle Lim
Anne Love
George Gaio Mano
Michelle Massaro
Lauricia Matuska
Rose Allen McCauley
Vicki McCollum
Pamela S. Meyers
Dineen Miller
Annette O’Hare
Liz Phelps
Elizabeth Pina
Cindy Regnier
Nanci Rubin
Beth Shriver
Cynthia L. Simmons
Kristina Soboleski
Charles Sutherland
Alena Tauriainen
Ruth Tredway
Susan Tuttle
Cathy West
Linda White
Jean Ann Williams
Beth Wiseman
Lenora Worth
Becky Yauger
Linda W. Yezak
Stacey Zink
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a What Does ACFW Membership Offer? a
Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or
discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you.
He will not fail you or forsake you…
I Chronicles 28:20 NIV
ACFW’s mission is to advance Christian Fiction by inspiring writers to join with God in the creative process, training them in the craft, and educating them in the publishing
industry.
Are you taking advantage of all ACFW has to offer as an
outflow of that mission?
The ACFW conference plays a role in each of those elements
of ACFW’s mission, not only training and educating but
inspiring through keynote speakers, interaction and networking, prayer that takes place in the prayer room and in spontaneous small groups, and through our worship times together.
The conference offers attendees unequaled access to a wide
variety of CBA (Christian Booksellers Association) publishers and agents who are familiar with the intricacies of CBA
publishing. In a publishing climate where traditional publishing hinges heavily on interactions between agents, editors,
and authors in a conference setting, the ACFW conference
sets the stage for both newcomer and veteran author success.
Those who have only the conference experience, though, miss
out on so much that happens throughout the year in keeping
with that same inspire/train/educate mission.
ACFW’s monthly online courses, webinars, loop instruction, genre loops, Novel Track Editing, The End program,
the Scribes critique program, and other resources sustain
the momentum of training and motivating writers in the craft
of Christian fiction.
ACFW helps writers become educated in what each publishing house or agent is looking for, how to successfully and
wisely navigate the waters of independent publishing, how to
approach an agent or editor, how to reach readers with what’s
been published, and what to expect in the writing world and
in the peaks and valleys of the writing life. No matter the
publishing path, ACFW trains in the craft of writing—telling
great stories.
Members enjoy discounts in ACFW’s contest entry fees—The
First Impressions Contest, The Genesis Contest, and The
Carol Awards—and conference registration.
The First Impressions and Genesis contests are specifically designed to help unpublished writers gain reader-reaction and
feedback about their writing in order to grow in the craft.
ing that helps members prepare their entries, their conference pitches, and their interactions with editors and agents.
Many members report finding research answers, ideas for
marketing, insights about social media and its connections
for writers, and direction for their stories or their careers
through their connections with other ACFW members.
ACFW puts strong emphasis on writers helping writers
become better writers. Many of our multi-published members serve as short-term or longer-term mentors for aspiring
authors or serve by offering their time for critiquing contest
entries and teaching online classes because they want to help
writers grow in their craft.
Genre groups on Facebook offer targeted discussions for
specific genres, with a new addition of a genre group for those
interested in independent publishing to discuss specifics.
Local chapters and an international online chapter provide
invaluable connections and even more layers of education
and fellowship with other writers. Many local chapters conduct one-day workshops in locations easily accessible to local
members.
ACFW is always at work to keep its members informed of
important changes or updates in the industry of interest to its
members. ACFW makes and maintains connections through
its relationships with retailers, libraries, and book clubs,
which benefits our membership through visibility, opportunities, and professional affiliation.
Opportunities to get the word out about members’ novels
include the ACFW Book Club, Featured Author interviews,
New Releases, and FictionFinder.com.
The basics of writing, editing, polishing, and revising fiction
are the same no matter the path to publication. The importance of good grammar skills, creating a meaningful and
attention-getting proposal, and communicating through story
remain the same. Pacing, genre issues, reader needs, point
of view, satisfying conclusions—all that education is common and necessary whether publishing independently or
traditionally. Once published, the education doesn’t end. The
multi-published continue learning, continue honing their
craft. And ACFW is here to help in that quest.
ACFW’s goal is to equip writers to create the best stories
possible and gain the education they need in the craft, the
market, and the industry—as well as the connections and
support of other writers—for maximum impact.
ACFW membership—a proactive way to gain courage, confidence, and skills to “do the work” and write great stories!
Another benefit of ACFW membership is support and traina c f w.c o m
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a 2015 conference staff a
Robin Miller
Conference Director
Pam Hillman,
Conference Treasurer
Casey Miller
Appointment Coordinator/
Conference Sponsorship
Liaison
Dineen A. Miller
Registration Desk Specialist
Suzanne Wesley
Conference Administrative
Assistant
Lisa Davis
Conference Office Assistant
Becky Yauger
Contests Administrator
Rachel Hauck
Conference Worship Leader
Brandilyn Collins
Prayer Room Coordinator
and Emcee
Casey Herringshaw
Carol Awards Coordinator
Pamela Meyers
Genesis Coordinator
Billy Wyatt
Conference Audio/Video,
Head Technician
Heather Tipton
Conference Administration
Robert Turner
Conference Administrative
Assistant
Cynthia Ruchti
ACFW Professional Relations
Liaison
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ACFW C onfere n ce
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Dall as 20 1 5
Emilie Hendryx
Conference Photographer
Thank you to our sponsors: