The Writing Fellows Program at the US Military Academy, West Point

Texas resident David Dalition spent over 25 years as an attorney for the US Army after receiving his law degree from the University of Notre Dame. More recently, David Dalition was appointed to an esteemed Assistant Professor position with the US Military Academy at West Point.

The Academy’s central mission is to educate, train, and inspire cadets so that upon graduating they are committed to duty, honor, and country to prepare them for a professional career in the US Army. It provides cadets a fine comprehensive education that includes opportunities to apply for programs that extend beyond the basic core subjects, such as the Writing Fellows Program.

In the highly selective Writing Fellows Program, chosen cadets work with faculty to research and contribute to conversations regarding writing and communication. Students selected to participate in the program enroll in two intensive courses that focus on writing practices and education. Additionally, students present their own writings at national conferences hosted by various writing organizations. The program also brings in guest speakers and coordinates writing workshops.

Faculty who participate in the program gain from the experience as well. They complete relevant academic courses and staff the school’s Mounger Writing Center. Faculty also attend and present at conferences, and the program presents an opportunity for them to pursue their own projects.