The Lurie Author-in-Residence Program was established through the generosity of Connie and Robert Lurie in order to attract nationally and internationally known authors to a position officially called "Visiting Artist/Scholar" for a period of one or two semesters (depending upon funds and the availability of the author).

It is a teaching professorship entailing close contact with students and public appearances. The fund is a permanent endowment. Candidates are nominated and selected by a review committee appointed by the English Department Chair with the approval of the Dean. The distinguished visiting artist/scholar carries the title of "Lurie Professor."

The Center for Literary Arts also invites major authors to campus for one-day seminars and large lectures. Recent authors include Salman Rushdie, Dorothy Allison, Gore Vidal and Neil Gaiman . See the Center for Literary Arts Major Author Series for events that involve the Lurie Professor.

Sandra Gilbert in 2009

Teaching Spring Courses
TBA

Speaking Events (sponsored by the CLA)
TBA

ZZ Packer in 2008

Teaching Spring Courses
English 177, 20th C. Fiction
English 241, Fiction Writing Workshop

Speaking Events (sponsored by the CLA )
Wednesday, February 27, 1 p.m., Conversation, Q&A and Book-signing, SJSU University Room.
Wednesday, February 27, 7:30 p.m., Reading , Q&A and Book-signing, SJSU Music Concert Hall.
Wednesday, March 5, 3 p.m., A Visit to Mt. Pleasant High School (open to the public)

James Kelman in 2007

James D. Houston in 2006

Ishmael Reed in 2005

Simon Winchester in 2004

Molly Giles in 2003

Al Young in 2002

Carolyn Kizer in 2001

Ursula K. le Guin , first Lurie chair in 2000