Fall classes at FGCU Academy for Learning are hybrid (online and in-person) using a cool OWL device. Don't delay in signing up--classes begin Oct. 11, 2022! Here's what I'm offering: 

Writers’ Collaborative Workshop (4-part series) MEETS: Tuesdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
COST:  $100
MEETS: Online via Zoom OR in-person at Naples Center (704 Goodlette-Frank Rd N, Suite 330. Naples, 34102)
Session 1: October 11, 18, 25, November 1
Session 2: November 8, 15, 29, December 6 [No class meeting week of Thanksgiving]
Click here to register (and choose online or in-person option) or call (239) 434-4737

Audience is one of the most important aspects of writing. Share the content of yours with like-minded, aspiring authors in a constructive, acceptance-oriented, creative and vibrant writing group in search of effective writing methodologies. This program welcomes whatever you are writing or want to write – memoir, stories, novel, or poems – for input, guidance and discussion. NOTE: This course is run like a facilitated critique group during which every participant will share his/her writing excerpt each week. Every student receives the same amount of time for reading and critique every week. Students must submit their writing excerpt via email to FGCU Academy 24 hours before each class session. Information on how to do so will be provided along with the Zoom link if you choose to participate online. 

October 2021
The LAST of the Zoom classes at FGCU Academy. They have a NEW Naples Center location (740 Goodlette Road) launching soon!

​Writers Collaborative Workshop
Wednesdays, October 6, 13, 20, 27 
Wednesdays, November 3, 10, 17, December 1 [no meeting 11/24]
Meets: 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Location: FGCU Academy via Zoom
Cost: $95
Course ID:  OL4080
Click here for registration page
Audience is one of the most important aspects of writing. Share the content of yours with like-minded, aspiring authors in a constructive, acceptance-oriented, creative and vibrant writing group in search of effective writing methodologies. This program welcomes whatever you are writing or want to write – memoir, stories, novel, or poems – for input, guidance and discussion.

A Novel Experience
Thursdays, October 28, November 4, 11, 18 
Meets: 10:00 a.m.-12 noon
Location: FGCU Academy via Zoom
Cost: $95
Course ID:  OL4082
Click here for registration page
If you have always wanted to write a book but do not know how to begin, then this workshop is for you. Learn the stages of the writing process as you plan and organize your book and explore characterization and plotting along with basic fiction elements. Those interested in writing nonfiction learn the importance of back-matter, envisioning the layout, using photos and diagrams and other details important to successful nonfiction. All writing levels are welcome. Bring a summary of your writing project or idea to the first class. 
​
Writing Your Spiritual Autobiography
Wednesdays, November 10 through December 15 (5 weeks) 
Meets: 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Location: St. William Catholic Church, Seagate Drive
Cost: tba
Contact: Kristi Jenkins for more info (kristi 'at' saintwilliam.org)
(Registration link forthcoming)
Writing memoir is popular right now, but have you considered creating a Spiritual Autobiography? Sharing what your faith means to you, how you’ve grown in your faith, or simply memories of receiving your Sacraments can inspire and enrich the faith and life journey of those close to us. In this 4-part series you’ll learn what a Spiritual Autobiography is and receive prompts and guidance on creating yours. If the thought of writing or typing causes you to shy away, options for presenting in non-written form will also be covered.


​September 2021
​Writing Your Spiritual Autobiography
Tuesdays, September 14 through October 5 (4 weeks) 
Meets: 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Location: St. Peter the Apostle Church Ministry Center (Rattlesnake Hammock and Hawaii Blvd in East Naples)
Cost $45 
Contact Colleen Grady to register: 239-774-3337 ext. 302 or email cgrady 'at' stpeternaples.org

Writing memoir is popular right now, but have you considered creating a Spiritual Autobiography? Sharing what your faith means to you, how you’ve grown in your faith, or simply memories of receiving your Sacraments can inspire and enrich the faith and life journey of those close to us. In this 4-part series you’ll learn what a Spiritual Autobiography is and receive prompts and guidance on creating yours. If the thought of writing or typing causes you to shy away, options for presenting in non-written form will also be covered.

Learn to Write Short Stories
Thursdays, September 9, 16, 23, 30
Meets: 10:00-12:00 p.m.
Location: FGCU Academy via Zoom
Cost: $95
Course ID:  OL3934
Click here for registration page

Enrollment is limited.  In this course, designed for beginners or anyone wishing to explore short stories, participants will learn from published examples while applying short fiction techniques to their own writing. We will explore conflict, characterization, viewpoint, and description as they contribute to plot. Tips on using viewpoint and sensory detail to engage readers, as well as story length and structure, are also covered.
​
Still time to register, but hurry!
Writers Collaborative Workshop
​Wednesdays, September 1, 8, 15, 22
Meets: 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Location: FGCU Academy via Zoom
Cost: $95
Course ID:  OL3929
Click here for registration page

Audience is one of the most important aspects of writing. Share the content of yours with like-minded, aspiring authors in a constructive, acceptance-oriented, creative and vibrant writing group in search of effective writing methodologies. This program welcomes whatever you are writing or want to write – memoir, stories, novel, or poems – for input, guidance and discussion.

On Demand webinars through FGCU Academy 
We are recording this week and as soon as the links are available, I’ll share in this space. Here’s what will be available for on-demand viewing: 

Writing Craft Series: 
Dramatically improve your writing skills with this series of craft workshops. The series will focus on the most important elements of character development, plot, and dialogue. You’ll be able to register for these single session webinars and watch at your convenience. These are great add-ons to current writing classes and can also be used to refresh your skills on character, plot, and dialogue. 

Creating Characters Learn how to to create rounded (rather than cardboard) characters and discover depths to personality that will maintain reader interest and add to overall story. 
Plot Twists  Learn the difference between plot and scene and how to weave in conflict and action to generate tension. Learn the  basic elements of a scene and how it serves as building blocks to advance the plot and enhance story.
Dialogue Details  Learn how to write strong dialogue that helps to build a scene. We’ll begin with content that hints at conflict and shows character, how to properly punctuate dialogue and how to weave in action and details that show character and adds to the plot.

And, more workshops coming up in October and November.
Watch this space for details!
Writers Collaborative Workshop
October 6, 13, 20, 27 at 1:30pm
November 3, 10, 17, December 1 at 1:30pm – 3:30pm
Novel Experience
October 28, November 4, 11, 18 at 10am – 12pm

It's officially "season" in Florida but my writing workshops come into your home via Zoom. Note that among the offerings below, those meeting through FGCU Academy are "hybrid" with classes online as well as in-person. The registration link provides you with a choice for the format that fits your needs. Hope to see you soon!

Writers Collaborative Workshops (choose from 5 separate 4-week sessions)
Thursdays, January 7, 14, 21, 28
Thursdays, February 4, 11, 18, 25
Thursdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25
​Thursdays, April 1, 8, 15, 22
Thursdays, April 29, May 6, 13, 20
Meets: 1-3 p.m.
Location: FGCU Academy Naples Center (1010 5th Ave. S) and via Zoom
Cost: $95
Course ID:  OL3613
Click here for registration page

Audience is one of the most important aspects of writing. Share the content of yours with like-minded, aspiring authors in a constructive, acceptance-oriented, creative and vibrant writing group in search of effective writing methodologies. This program welcomes whatever you are writing or want to write – memoir, stories, novel, or poems – for input, guidance and discussion.


Writing Your Spiritual Autobiography (4-week)
via Zoom (sponsored by St. William church but open to all)
Tuesdays, January 26, February 2, 9, 16
Meets: 1:30-3 p.m.
Cost $45 
Click here for registration page

Writing memoir is popular right now, but have you considered creating a Spiritual Autobiography? Sharing what your faith means to you, how you’ve grown in your faith, or simply memories of receiving your Sacraments can inspire and enrich the faith and life journey of those close to us. In this 4-part series you’ll learn what a Spiritual Autobiography is and receive prompts and guidance on creating yours. If the thought of writing or typing causes you to shy away, options for presenting in non-written form will also be covered.


A Novel Experience (4-week)
Thursdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25
Meets:  9-11 a.m.
Location: FGCU Academy Naples Center (1010 5th Ave. S) and via Zoom
Cost: $95
Course ID:  OL3621
Click here for registration page

If you have always wanted to write a book but do not know how to begin, then this workshop is for you. Learn the stages of the writing process as you plan and organize your book and explore characterization and plotting along with basic fiction elements. Those interested in writing nonfiction learn the importance of back-matter, envisioning the layout, using photos and diagrams and other details important to successful nonfiction. All writing levels are welcome. Bring a summary of your writing project or idea to the first class.


Road to Publication (4-week)
Tuesdays, March 9, 16, 23, 30
Meets: 9-11 a.m.
Location: FGCU Academy Naples Center (1010 5th Ave. S) and via Zoom
Cost: $95
Course ID:  OL3623
Click here for registration page

Your manuscript is revised and polished, now what? Two avenues are open for publication; find a traditional publisher or agent or self-publish. This lecture covers the steps for each option and how to overcome the hurdles along the way. First, we’ll search for publishers and printers and what to look for in each. Next, we’ll work on query letters and proposals for traditional publishers/agents, what to send and how to pitch. Finally, we’ll look at the steps for self-publishing including what to expect, how to find the best fit and pricing levels. 


Marketing For Writers (4-week)
Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 6 & 8 + April 13 & 15
Meets: 9-11 a.m.
Location: FGCU Academy Naples Center (1010 5th Ave. S) and via Zoom
Cost: $95
Course ID:  OL3625
Click here for registration page

This course provides an overview of the 3 Ps of authorship: pitching, publication and book promo. First, we’ll look at how to find publishers for your project, whether you’re writing articles or books. Then we’ll determine what they want and how to pitch our manuscripts. Finally, we’ll explore contract basics, what to expect during the book printing stages and how to promote yourself and your publications as a writer. Please note, this is not a critique class in which your writing/excerpts are shared for feedback, but rather, this course focuses on the post-revision, publication and post-publication stages. 

Updated Links for RENAISSANCE ACADEMY ONLINE CLASSES
Summer class catalog is in the works. Here’s what I’ll be offering. As soon as registration links are available, I’ll share them here, during "Writers Happy Hour" on Fridays via Zoom and at LisaWrobleWriting on Facebook too.

Writers’ Collaborative Workshop (4 weeks)
Wednesdays, June 3, 10, 17, 24 at 1:00–3:00 pm
Course ID:  WB0130
Cost:  $95
LIMITED TO 10 participants. Audience is one of the most important aspects of writing.  Share the content of yours with like-minded, aspiring authors in a constructive, acceptance-oriented, and vibrant writing group. In this hands-on workshop, participants will share writing for feedback and also engage in discussion of the writing craft and profession at all levels, including the writing process, developing ideas, audience and reader engagement, effective revision techniques, and targeting specific genres and markets. Each week every participant reads an excerpt of work-in-progress for constructive critique and collaborative learning.
Click to register.

Writing Craft Series (3 weeks)
Mondays, June 15, 22, 29 at 1:00–3:00 pm
Course ID: WB0133
Cost: $80 (for 3-week series)
Participants may register for the entire series OR for any of the individual lectures below. Dramatically improve your writing skills with this series of craft workshops and in-class writing exercises. The series will focus on the most important elements of character development, plot, and dialogue. All writing levels are welcome.
Click to register for the 3-week series

This class can be taken as the 3-week series or as individual sessions:
June 15: Creating Characters -- click to register 
Course ID: WB0134
Cost: $30

June 22: Dialogue Details -- click to register
Course ID: WB0135
Cost:  $30

June 29: Plot Twists -- click to register
Course ID: WB0136
Cost: $30 

I’m also working on converting the popular Marketing for Writers to an online format so we can offer it this summer (June or July). Subscribe to WIP Tips eNewsletter for updates. (It's free!) Click the "newsletter" tab on the menu above. 

New days/time for online classes via Zoom

“With A Writer’s Eye"  (3 weeks)
How does “reading” with a writers eye improve our writing skill? In this discussion-based class we read selections and deconstruct to learn how authors engage readers and use various writing elements. We’ll also discuss story and what we can learn from audiobooks and TV/film.

WHEN:      Fridays, 10:30 a.m.-12 noon (Eastern Time)
DATES:      May 22, 29, and June 5
COST:        $35 
REGISTER:    email me (use the Contact Form page) for link & payment details by May 20. 

"Writing Nonfiction" (4 weeks)
Thursdays, 6:00-7:30 PM
May 21 though June 11
Are you an information giver? Do you like to share facts? Or, perhaps you enjoy sharing about your own experiences. Then this class is for you. We’ll focus on writing articles or short personal experience (memoir) pieces. You’ll learn how to narrow the focus and create a slant for each article, the basic three-part structure, types of openings (and closings) that will engage readers, and use of word choice/language to maintain interest.

WHEN:      6:00-7:30 PM (Eastern Time)
DATES:     May 21, 28, June 4, 11, 2020
COST:      $60 for 4 sessions (meets weekly) via Zoom
Register:    email me (use Contact Form page) for link & payment details by May 20. 

NOTE: All classes below--which met in locations throughout Collier County, Florida--have been suspended until further notice due to COVID-19.
I will update this site as we put a few classes online. 
Please follow social distancing mandates and stay safe! ​

While the holidays may interfere with writing goals, resolve to get back to your writing projects in 2020. Registration is now open for winter session writing workshops in Southwest Florida. 
NOTE: Most sections of Writers Collaborative Workshop at Renaissance Academy were sold out. New sections with afternoon times plus two Tuesday morning sessions were added and are ready for registration. See those in red below. 

Writing Memoir, Personal Experience, and Family Stories — 6 weeks
Wednesdays 4:00-6:00 p.m. | January 15 to February 19
Location: Lorenzo Walker Technical College (LWTC)
Have you led an exciting life? Have a rich genealogy? Enjoy sharing past experiences? This class will help you navigate through the islands of your memory as you learn to select and develop key events from your past, focus on the people and drama, and incorporate description for reader engagement. Click here for registration details. Or call 239-377-1234 Course ID: 2140002 Cost: $89

Writers Collaborative Workshop — 4 weeks (mornings)
Thursdays 10 a.m.-12 noon 
Location: Renaissance Academy/FGCU Naples Center (south Naples)
Option #1 – NC2857 – January 16, 23, 30, February 6 
Option #2 – NC2858 – February 13, 20, 27, March 5
Option #3 – NC2859 – March 12, 19, 26, April 2 
Option #4 – NC2860 – April 9, 16, 23, 30
Option #5 – NC2861 – May 7, 14, 21, 28 
Option #8 --  NC2895 -- March 10, 17, 24, 31
Option #10 -- NC2896 -- April 7, 14, 21, 28

Writers Collaborative Workshop — 4 weeks (afternoons)
Thursdays 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Location: Renaissance Academy/FGCU Naples Center (south Naples)
Option #6 – NC2892 – January 16, 23, 30, February 6 
Option #7 – NC2893 – February 13, 20, 27, March 5
Option #9 – NC2894 – March 12, 19, 26, April 2 ​
Choose one of the course options above. Enrollment is limited to 10 participants.  Please bring your writing samples to the first lecture.  Audience is one of the most important aspects of writing.  Share the content of yours with like-minded, aspiring authors in a constructive, acceptance-oriented, and vibrant writing group. In this hands-on workshop, participants will share writing for feedback and also engage in discussion of the writing craft and profession at all levels, including the writing process, developing ideas, audience and reader engagement, effective revision techniques, and targeting specific genres and markets. Each week every participant reads an excerpt of work-in-progress for constructive critique and collaborative learning. Click here for registration details or call 239-434-4737.  Cost: $80 members / $95 non-members​ 

Writing Short Stories — 6 weeks
Thursdays 3:30-5:30 p.m. | Jan. 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13, 20
Location: Lorenzo Walker Technical College (LWTC)
In this course, designed for beginners or anyone wishing to explore short stories, participants will learn from published examples while applying short fiction techniques to their own writing. We will explore conflict, characterization, viewpoint, and description as they contribute to plot. Tips on using viewpoint and sensory detail to engage readers as well as story length and structure, will be covered. Click here for registration details. Or call 239-377-1234 Course ID: 2140004 Cost: $89

Story Elements: Character, Plot, POV — 3 weeks
Tuesdays 3:30-5:30 p.m. | March 3, 17, 24
Location: Barron Collier High School (BCHS)
Get started on your story with these important elements. Through writing exercises learn to engage readers by crafting 3-dimensional characters then creating an exciting plot with a realistic point-of-view. We will share in-class writing to learn from different story options. This short course is perfect for all levels of writers. Click here for registration details. Or call 239-377-1234 Course ID: 2140059  Cost: $59

Focus on Your Book Project — 6 Weeks
Thursdays 6:00-8:00 p.m. | March 5, 19, 26, April 1, 9, 16
Location: Lorenzo Walker Technical College (LWTC)
Have you thought of writing a book? Discover the process of drafting both fiction and nonfiction books from planning and layout, chaptering and organizing, to the importance of different writing elements. Students will have time during each session to share excerpts of their works-in-progress for feedback. All writing levels encouraged. Click here for registration details. Or call 239-377-1234 Course ID: 214030 Cost: $89

The Road to Publication — 4 weeks
Thursdays 10 a.m.-12 noon | March 11, 18, 25, April 1
Location: Renaissance Academy/FGCU Naples Center (south Naples)
NC2866 – Enrollment is limited. Your manuscript is revised and polished, now what? Two avenues are open for publication; find a traditional publisher or agent or self-publish. This lecture covers the steps for each option and how to overcome the hurdles along the way. First, we’ll search for publishers and printers and what to look for in each. Next, we’ll work on query letters and proposals for traditional publishers/ agents, what to send and how to pitch. Finally, we’ll look at the steps for self-publishing including what to expect, how to find the best fit, and pricing levels. Click here for registration details or call 239-434-4737. Cost: $80 members / $95 non-members

Story Elements: Dialogue, Scene, Theme — 3 weeks
Tuesdays 3:30-5:30 p.m. | March 31, April 7, 14
Location: Barron Collier High School (BCHS)
Focus on specific story elements in this short course perfect for all writing levels. Engage readers using dialogue, action, and setting to establish strong scenes and then deepen the story by considering story theme. We will explore options for each writing element and share in-class writing to learn from each other. Click here for registration details. Or call 239-377-1234 Course ID: 214060 Cost: $59
 
Revision Decisions — 4 weeks
Wednesdays 10 a.m.-12 noon | April 8, 15, 22, 29
Location: Renaissance Academy/FGCU Naples Center (south Naples)
NC2868 – Enrollment is limited. Students should bring a short two-page writing sample to the first class. The real work of writing happens during the revision stage in the writing process. This course reviews the four stages and focuses on the decisions needed to improve a manuscript. Learn different techniques to rethink pacing and development of your work-in-progress. Participants work with their own manuscripts to complete in-class revision exercises and then share excerpts. Click here for registration details or call 239-434-4737. Cost: $80 members / $95 non-members 
​
Marketing for Writers — 4 weeks
Wednesdays 10 a.m.-12 noon | May 6, 13, 20, 27
Location: Renaissance Academy/FGCU Naples Center (south Naples)
NC2869 – Enrollment is limited.  Have you finished your manuscript? Hope to pitch your idea to editors? Now you’re ready to embark on a new writer’s journey – overcoming all the hurdles of getting published. In this course, we will explore how to find and select markets and then pitch manuscripts to editors. We will work on crafting strong submission letters, learn the difference between proposals and query letters, publishing terms, and the details of basic contracts. Click here for registration details or call 239-434-4737. Cost: $80 members / $95 non-members