The Association of Writers & Writing Programs has named Michelle Aielli as its executive director, effective July 1. Aielli has been serving as interim executive director since September 2024.
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The AWP board of directors voted unanimously to approve the appointment. Chair January Gill O'Neil said, "Michelle has shown outstanding leadership, skill, and commitment throughout her time as interim director and her service on the board of directors. I'm excited for the new path forward under her guidance."
Aielli has more than 25 years of experience in the book industry, most recently as v-p and publishing director of Hachette Books at Hachette Book Group. Previously, she served as director of publicity for Little, Brown, among other roles within Hachette Book Group and other publishing houses.
Aielli commented: "It has been an honor to work as interim director alongside AWP's staff and board of directors, a small but mighty team committed to advancing the literary arts. As we navigate a rapidly shifting cultural, political, and technological landscape, I am dedicated to ensuring AWP remains a source of support and connection for writers, writing programs, and the broader literary community."