The University of Rhode Island will offer its second Ocean State Summer Writing Conference next month. “I think we really tapped into a need of the Rhode Island community and beyond,” said prize-winning poet Peter Covino, an assistant professor of English and conference coordinator. Last year, more than 240 writers and poets attended.

“Thanks to feedback, this year we¹re offering more hands-on activities and events,” he said. Those events include a free concert for conference attendees, cosponsored by URI’s music department.

The conference, sponsored by URI’s English department, will be held Friday, June 20, and Saturday, June 21. Pre-conference writing workshops will be held Thursday afternoon, June 19, and Friday morning, June 20.

Ann Hood, a 1978 alumna and author of more than 10 books, whose memoir, Comfort, will be published next month, will open the conference on June 20. Poets Denise Duhamel and Nick Carbo will give a keynote address on “Poetic Inspiration” the next day.

Internationally known poet-composer Nina Cassian will read from her work on June 20. A concert featuring her music will be held that evening.

In addition, the conference will offer panel discussions featuring three or more professional writers who will take turns giving short presentations. The panelists will open the discussion to participants’ questions, creating a two-way flow of information on writing-related topics.

Craft presenters will lead sessions about a particular aspect of or approach to writing fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, giving participants the opportunity to read, write, and respond. Participants will be able to retreat to a workout room this year to write or receive one-on-one feedback. Readings and book signings are also offered.

An information session about earning a master of fine arts degree in creative writing is also on tap. Sessions by genre also will be offered.

Pre-conference sessions, offered for a separate fee, will provide beginning and advanced writers and poets the opportunity to hone their skills in small settings. In-class writing exercises, reading, and generous feedback from a professional in the field are part of the mix.

The conference fee is $135 for the public and $100 for students with a valid student ID. There is an $30 charge for dinner on June 20. The pre-conference fee is $125 for the public and $55 for students with a valid student ID.

For a full schedule of events and online registration go to www.uri.edu/artsci/eng/SummerWriting/08/index.html