Young Scholars Literary Symposium Schedule
Mysteries and Mayhem
Feb. 21, 2026
Shenandoah University, Winchester, Virginia
This year’s keynote speaker, Heidi Christopher, will reflect on her experiences as an SU student and alumna and on penning her groundbreaking first novel, Lies the Dirt Keeps.
Heidi Christopher was raised in southern North Carolina and now lives on a mountain in Virginia with her family, which includes a golden retriever, a golden doodle, and four sassy cats. While studying English Literature at Shenandoah University, Heidi was a contributing writer for the university newspaper. Now, she’s a freelance editor specializing in academics for grades K-12. Her debut psychological thriller, Lies the Dirt Keeps, was published in November 2025.
Instagram @heidicwrites and Bluesky @HeidiChristopher.
| Time | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| noon – 4:30 p.m. | Registration Check-In & Information Desk | Henkel Hall, Foyer |
| 12:45 – 12:55 p.m. | Opening Remarks | Henkel Hall, Hester Auditorium |
| 1 – 4 p.m. | Clue Done It – Agatha Christie Escape Room | Henkel Hall, Room 223 |
| 1-2:15 p.m. | Writing Workshop: Collective Clue, with Katelyn Garback | Henkel Hall, Room 108 |
| 1-2:15 p.m. | Breakout Sessions | 1A – Henkel 109 1B – Henkel 107 1C – PHLSB 122 1D – PHLSB 123 |
| 2:30-3:45 p.m. | Writing Workshop: Build a Monster, with Lily Kilduff | Henkel Hall, Room 108 |
| 2:30-3:45 p.m. | Breakout Sessions | 2A – Henkel 109 2B – Henkel 107 2C – PHLSB 122 2D – PHLSB 123 |
| 4-5 p.m. | Closing Reception, featuring Heidi Christopher | Henkel Hall, Hester Auditorium |
| 7-9 p.m. | Film Night Event – Clue | Henkel Hall, Hester Auditorium |
The following groups have kindly co-sponsored this year’s film event:
Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology – College of Arts & Sciences
Department of Media, Communication, and Film – College of Arts & Sciences
Office of Student Leadership and Engagement