Rome, Ga. – Shorter University Literary magazine, The Chimes, is hosting a release celebration for its 103^rd issue. The celebration will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 5, in the Price Learning Center on Shorter’s campus.

The featured speaker will be Dr. Kevin Brown, professor of English at Lee University and author of “Exit Lines,” a book of poetry. Also on the program will be musical guest Jefferson Bennett of “To Have and to Hold.” Selected readings by featured Shorter students will also be a part of the evening.

Founded in 1879, The Chimes was completely student-sponsored and supported and sold for 50 cents per yearly subscription. It has been published continuously since then with the exception of a brief suspension from 1918 to 1922, making it the longest-running publication in Shorter history.

“What started as a tabloid newspaper has evolved into a literary magazine containing art as well as literature,” according to Dr. Fabrice Poussin, who has been adviser to The Chimes for the past three years.

Dr. Poussin said he regards his work with the literary magazine as one of the most rewarding experiences of his life as an educator. “The main reason for this is the incredible team of extraordinary students with whom I work on a weekly basis. I am very encouraged by these young minds who understand the power of their talents with words, brushes or cameras,” he said.

The theme of this year’s publication “Selah.” The direct translation of this word is unknown, but it appears over 74 times in the Bible. Scholars believe it was a musical or reading direction to pause and reflect on the prior passage. With this in mind, this edition contains pieces that focus on small moments in life. In other words, Dr. Poussin said, the edition focuses on things you only notice if you slow down and pay attention.

The Chimes provides a place for students to showcase their hard-work and accomplishments and gives students and faculty a place to connect and even share their faith.

“The magazine is one of Shorter University’s greatest testimonies to its success and impact. Students are opening more and more doors for themselves as they write for, create for, and edit the magazine. Many of them have published in other venues as well and presented their creative work at conferences; alumni have gone on to careers in writing and publishing,” said Dr. Poussin. “It is a certainty that we are going to see a great many more of our Shorter University students at the frontline of publishing in the very near future.”

Written by Public Relations Intern Rachael Minard

Founded in 1873, Shorter University is a Christ-centered, four-year liberal arts university committed to excellence in education. U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review annually include Shorter on their lists of best Southeastern Colleges. The university offers traditional bachelor’s degrees in 40 areas of study, online courses and degree programs, undergraduate programs for working adults, associate’s, and master’s programs.