Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop Hosts Global Writers for a Weekend of Fun
Photo via University of Dayton
Abigail Finke | Contributing Writer
From March 26-28, 350 writers from across the nation and beyond will gather at the University of Dayton for the biennial Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop. The event features various workshop sessions held at Daniel J. Curran Place, headlined by five keynote speakers.
Starting in 2000, the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop has been an outlet for writers to connect and enjoy themselves. Previously, celebrities such as Ohio natives Nancy Cartwright and Phil Donahue have been in attendance. The inaugural workshop was held to honor Bombeck’s family gifting her papers to the university.
The workshop honors comedy writer and UD alum, Erma Bombeck, who is best known for her newspaper columns highlighting the humor of being a suburban housewife. She gained popularity with “At Wit’s End,” her column turned book.
“It was just envisioned as a one-time event,” said Teri Rizvi, founder of the workshop. She mentioned that the event was so fun, making them want to do it all again.
Growing in popularity over the years, the 2026 event sold out in merely 33 hours. For those who missed out on a ticket, Erma Home Schooling is the virtual workshop also held March 26-28. It includes five keynote talks and four exclusive workshops.
Comedian Leighann Lord will be the emcee for the weekend. Her experience includes appearances on numerous comedy networks, comedic podcasting, and the creation of the column, “The Urban Erma.” She is also a recipient of the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
The gathering will begin with a welcome dinner on Thursday, March 26, to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the workshop. New York Times bestselling family author Kelly Corrigan will lead the dinner with an address.
Rizvi said, “The opening night is always a big thrill. The whole place is abuzz with people excited to be there.”
Programming for Friday, March 27, includes a variety of breakout sessions, including “Taking Your Piece from Haha to Hilarious” and “How to be Funnier in 57 Minutes.” A lunch break follows, with a presentation from John Searles, author and contributing writer for the New York Times and Washington Post.
Friday afternoon sessions feature lessons on stand-up comedy and creative writing. The evening concludes with a dinner spotlighting author Ann Garvin.
Rizvi spoke about how the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop differs from other such workshops. “Yes, the focus is on learning, but there’s also a strong focus on both entertainment and empowerment,” she said. This weekend aims to uplift writers and inspire their creativity.
Continuing the festivities on Saturday, Sona Movesesian, personal assistant of talk show host Conan O’Brien, will present. Attendees have the opportunity to learn about the publishing process and the art of improvisation.
The weekend culminates with a dinner at the Marriott at the University of Dayton, highlighted by a presentation from bestselling author Steven Rowley.
The next in-person event is planned for 2028. During the off years, writers are encouraged to join online sessions for Erma Home Schooling.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Abigail Finke is enrolled in the Flyer News Practicum, a course focused on experiential learning that is offered through the Communication Department. The Practicum, part of the journalism sequence, is offered fall and spring semesters.