Founded in 1986, The Western Maryland Writers' Workshop is dedicated to encouraging the artistic development of individual writers, supporting a writing community, and developing an audience for contemporary poets and fiction writers.

In addition to sponsoring community poetry and fiction readings, the Workshop also sponsors visits by some of this country's most prestigious writers. While on campus, these visiting writers hold public readings, conduct workshops, and teach master classes in the English Department's creative writing courses. All evenings readings are free and open to the public and include receptions, booksignings, and the opportunity to chat with well-known writers. The workshops and master classes give students the opportunity to work in a close, informal setting with the visiting writer.

Praised by the Maryland Humanities Council as a "highly worthwhile project," the Workshop has been acclaimed for its commitment to "bringing in culture and awareness of the arts." Recent visiting writers have included award-winning writers Mark Doty, Bruce Jacobs, Galway Kinnell, Sharon Olds, Lucille Clifton, Joy Harjo, Lee K. Abbott, Susan Perabo, Robin Becker, and many others.