Lake Erie Ink and Cleveland State University’s English Department will attempt to inspire the creative muses in young writers in grades six through 12 this weekend during their Teen Writers’ Symposium.

The event, this Saturday, May 3 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at CSU’s historic Mather Mansion, 2605 Euclid Avenue, will encourage the writers to explore the worlds of poetry, fiction, creative content, fantasy, and graphic novels

.Students will have the unique opportunity to meet and learn from acclaimed local and

regional writers through interactive workshops, a dynamic panel discussion, and an engaging meet-and-greet. Lunch will be provided.

Featured guest writers include:

• Anna KoppAnna Kopp: Author of YA and middle grade novels including “Project Nought,” “Rise of the School for Good and Evil,” and the graphic novel “Shulgi and the Sumerian Dragon.” Her work spans sci-fi, fantasy, and horror, often exploring themes of identity and transformation. Based in Cleveland, Anna is also a U.S. Army veteran, a parent, and a passionate gamer who brings a unique voice to contemporary speculative fiction.
• Megan Whalen Turner: Best known for The Queen’s Thief series, Turner is a celebrated author whose intricately plotted fantasy novels have earned wide acclaim for their rich world-building, political intrigue, and unforgettable characters. Her books include the 1997 Newbery Medal winner “The Thief” and its sequels, which have inspired generations of young readers and writers. Turner lives in Shaker Heights and continues to influence the literary world with her immersive storytelling.
• Michelle R. Smith: Writer, poet, educator, cultural facilitator, and native Clevelander, Smith serves as programming director for Literary Cleveland and is the 2025–2026 Poet Laureate for Cleveland Heights & University Heights. Smith is the author of “Ariel in Black” and “The Vagina Analogues.” Her work has appeared in “The Normal School,” “Merge Magazine,” “The Gasconade Review,” and additional publications.
• Smith is the creator and director of BLAX MUSEUM, an annual performance showcase uplifting Black historical and cultural figures through multi-disciplinary art.
• Calil “Just C.O.S.” Cage: Poet, educator, and founder of The Sparrow’s Fortune, a nonprofit dedicated to emotional growth through writing and the arts. Cage is a Room in the House Fellow at Karamu House and co-creator of “BARE: In the Flesh.” Cage’s work emphasizes healing, resilience, and planting “seeds of impact” through spoken word and creative community-building.
• Caira Lee: National Poetry Slam champion, multidisciplinary artist, and educator, Lee uses poetry, documentary, and video logging (vlogging) as tools of creative resistance and self-promotion—often blending digital storytelling with social justice themes. Lee’s work reflects a deep commitment to amplifying identity, healing, and change through accessible and powerful multimedia art.

Cali "Just COS" Cage

Space for the Teen Writers’ Symposium is limited. Registration is required and tickets are $10, and scholarships are available. Lake Erie Ink offers many teen programs throughout the year, ranging from Poetigraphics: Poetry & Photography, Young Novelists, and Facing the College Essay. For a full list of camps, classes, and programs, visit the Lake Erie Ink calendar.

The Teen Writers’ Symposium is supported in part by a public grant from Cuyahoga Arts & Culture and by the Ohio Arts Council.