The DOECL is excited to welcome Melissa Faliveno as Assistant Professor of Creative Writing. Prof. Faliveno holds an MFA in Creative Nonfiction Writing from Sarah Lawrence College. She has published the essay collection TOMBOYLAND, which was named a Best Book of 2020 by NPR, New York Public Library, Oprah Magazine, and Electric Literature, and recipient of a 2021 Award for Outstanding Literary Achievement from the Wisconsin Library Association. Keep reading to learn more about Professor Faliveno:
What are you most excited about at UNC?
“The creative writing program here is legendary, and I’m so excited to be part of it again—to work with such talented and passionate students and to get to see them grow as writers, from Intro all the way to Senior Thesis and beyond. Next year I’ll also be taking on the hallowed role of faculty advisor for Cellar Door, which is a huge honor, and a super exciting one. The UNC campus is also just stunningly beautiful, and I love spending time outside, so I’m looking forward to doing a lot of wandering around the arboretum, meeting students and friends outside, taking walks in the woods, and watching the magnolias bloom.”
What is a project you’re currently working on?
“I’m currently working on a novel. I actually finished the first draft of it here in Chapel Hill a couple years ago, when I was the Kenan Visiting Writer, and I’m excited to finish it here (hopefully very soon!) too. The story takes place mostly in the woods, and I live in the woods right now, so it all feels pretty fated and right. And, of course, I have another essay collection in the works after that. I love writing and reading fiction but creative nonfiction is my first love, so I’m ready to get back at it.”
What is a fun fact about you?
“I used to play roller derby! My skater name? Harlot Brontë. (English major/Jane Eyre fan for life.)”
Learn more about Professor Faliveno here.
