Central Coast Writers Conference to celebrate 40th annual event Oct. 5

Join fellow writers and creatives for a day of inspiration and encouragement

– The Central Coast Writers Conference (CCWC) has a long history of inspiring writers and creatives from all walks of life. From beginners to those with a lengthy list of published works, this annual event hosted by Cuesta College has brought presenters and attendees together with a common goal of gathering with like-minded people. The 2024 event will occur on Oct. 5 on the Cuesta College campus in San Luis Obispo.

“The Central Coast Writers Conference has enjoyed a storied history, dating back to the original Saturday gathering in 1984,” said former CCWC Director Dave Congalton, a local radio personality, screenwriter, and author. “Three women – Lillian Dean, Dr. Barbara George, and Connie Wambolt – had the inspiration to bring the Central Coast writing community together, a tradition that has continued over the years. Despite the changes in directors and the diversity of topics and formats, the Central Coast Writers Conference remains a vital source of both inspiration and opportunity for writers young and old, new and experienced, regardless of genre.”

Dean served as the CCWC director from 1984 to 1991 before handing over the reins to Congalton, who led the conference with assistance from Charlotte Alexander from 1993 to 2005. Cathe Fein Olson directed the conference for a total of four years starting in 2006, followed by Judy Salamacha from 2010 to 2014.

When asked what makes CCWC appealing to both new and established writers, Salamacha pointed to the variety of learning opportunities, smaller group sessions for interactive discussions, and full access even at break and lunchtime to professional authors, agents, and editors excited to share their expertise.

“The Central Coast Writers’ Conference has created a unique opportunity for writers at any level of expertise to learn from professionals wanting to share what they have learned in order to succeed in the publishing industry,” said Salamacha, a local author. Teri Bayus, a local author and screenwriter, took over as CCWC director in 2015 and served for six years including the 2020 conference via Zoom during pandemic shutdowns. Under her direction, CCWC was named “Best Conference in the West” by Writers Magazine, with Bayus bringing in presenters and attendees from all over the nation.

For CCWC 2024, Brian Schwartz returns as the event director after taking on the role in 2023 when he brought a full day of workshops to an enthusiastic crowd. For those on the fence about registering and attending this year’s event, he shares a simple tip – don’t overthink it!

“I knew this role as conference director was going to stretch me, and I am a firm believer that stepping out of your comfort zone is the key to growth,” said Schwartz, a local author and publishing services consulting firm CEO. “Even if you’re unsure about the direction you want to go in your own creative journey, it’s impossible not to get inspired by the brilliant minds who are part of this year’s event.”

Find more information, including registration forms, at CentralCoastWritersConference.com

Contact Cuesta College Community Programs at (805) 546-3132 or Brian Schwartz at brian_schwartz@cuesta.edu. Follow CCWC on social media for the latest updates: Instagram and Twitter @CCWritersCon and Facebook @CentralCoastWritersConference.