Jason Courtmanche Memorial Writing Marathon

The Connecticut Writing Project - Storrs hosts an annual writing marathon to honor the life and legacy of Jason Courtmanche, who served as CWP Director from 2007-2024. The event traditionally coincides with NCTE's October National Day on Writing, as well as the National Writing Project's annual Write Out celebration, which encourages place-based writing for writers of all ages.

Attendees gather together for a guided walk around UConn's campus to reflect, write, and share works inspired by the beautiful tress Jason admired.

On display in the Stern Lounge of the Philip E. Austin building on UConn's campus are the "Views of Horsebarn Hill" by Blanche Serban. These paintings are on loan from Jason Courtemanche's wife, Amy Norton, to honor his memory.

Dr. Jason Courtmanche

April 15, 1969  –  November 27, 2024

Full shot of Jason Courtmanche seated outdoors facing forward with a warm smile. He wears a short-sleeve charcoal v-neck t-shirt, faded blue jeans, and a wristwatch, resting his arms on his knees with hands clasped together, with a visible green tattoo on his right arm.

Hawthorne is quoted as saying, “I have not lived, but only dreamed about living.”  That can never be said about Jason. He lived his life to the fullest, savoring every moment, every person, and every word.  Life is not fair.  Jason had so many more students left to inspire and far too many more books to read and words to write.  No matter how long Jason had lived, it would never have been long enough, but he did live, and he lived well.  We, all the people upon whom he had an impact, will remember him—with deep love and respect—always.  Read the full Jason Courtmanche – In Memoriam piece. Visit Jason's widely-read blog, "The Write Space," to which he contributed for more than fifteen years until shortly before his passing in 2024.

Past Writing Marathons