Fostering Wellbeing Through Collective Writing Practices: Shut Up and Write! in Higher Education Settings

This book explores the transformative power of collaborative writing sessions in fostering wellbeing among academics. In this collection, the second of two volumes, the editors bring together diverse voices from around the globe, offering insights into how Shut Up & Write! (SUAW) sessions are revolutionising academic practice and nurturing healthier, more connected scholarly communities.

From remote scholars finding connection to working-class academics addressing unfinished business, this book illuminates the multifaceted benefits of SUAW. It delves into how these sessions build resilience, cultivate passion, boost productivity, and nurture academic identity. The contributors share personal narratives, practical strategies, and critical reflections on how SUAW initiatives are reshaping academic culture.

This is essential reading for academics, doctoral students, and university administrators seeking innovative approaches to enhance wellbeing in higher education. It offers a compelling case for integrating SUAW into academic life, demonstrating its potential to combat isolation, foster supportive networks, and promote a more balanced approach to scholarly work.

Narelle Lemon is a Professor and Vice Chancellor Professorial Research Fellow at Edith Cowan University, Australia, where she leads the Wellbeing and Education Research Community, and is an interdisciplinary scholar across arts, education, and positive psychology. She is also Creative Director of Explore & Create Co.

Aaron Bolzle is Co-Founder of Writing Partners and President of its flagship initiative, Shut Up & Write!. He also serves as an Innovation Fellow at the Cambridge University ThinkLab, where he collaborates on community-focused initiatives that support connection and wellbeing. Bolzle’s work centers on creating inclusive, thriving global writing communities that foster belonging, resilience, and sustainable practice. Under his leadership, Shut Up & Write! has expanded to hundreds of cities and universities in over 60 countries.

Malaika Santa Cruz served as a key early team member at Shut Up & Write!, growing the community back when Shut Up & Write! was only a few thousand members across eight chapter cities. A decade later, her operational expertise and dedication to fostering meaningful partnerships has been pivotal in maintaining the inclusive culture as Shut Up & Write! has expanded to hundreds of cities and universities worldwide.

Rennie Saunders is the founder and CEO of Shut Up & Write!, a global organisation that hosts free writing events for authors worldwide. What began as a personal quest to find creative community in San Francisco has grown into a movement supporting nearly 100,000 writers across 53 countries. A lifelong science fiction enthusiast who wrote his first story at age 12, Rennie is passionate about providing writers with the resources, community, and accountability they need to succeed.