Celebrating four decades of literary excellence, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Cornerstone Press, entirely managed by undergraduate students, marks its 40th anniversary with a grand gala slated for Friday, April 5th, to be held in the Alumni Room.
Since its inception in 1984 as an integral component of the Department of English’s academic fabric, Cornerstone Press has unfurled over a hundred titles spanning diverse genres, from captivating short fiction to evocative poetry collections. These literary endeavors have not only garnered accolades but also catapulted authors into the limelight on national and international platforms. Pioneering the concept within the University of Wisconsin system, Cornerstone Press has thrived with unwavering support from the School of Humanities and Global Studies and the College of Letters and Science.
Beyond its core mission of publishing, Cornerstone Press serves as a crucible for students, furnishing them with immersive experiences in writing, editing, design, sales, and marketing, thus fortifying their foundations for future pursuits in the realm of publishing and beyond.
Reflecting on the journey, Ross Tangedal, Associate Professor of English and the driving force behind Cornerstone Press, shares, “Cornerstone Press attracts manuscripts from coast to coast, and our endeavor is to elevate them into the realm of literary excellence. However, amidst all achievements, my foremost pride lies in witnessing the transformative journey of our students.” He emphasizes the significance of the skills honed during this journey, ranging from collaborative prowess to adept handling of diverse authorial backgrounds and navigating the intricate web of deadlines and contingencies. “It’s not just about publishing books; it’s about imparting real-world experience,” he adds with a sense of fulfillment.
