Drexel's Creative Writing MFA program in the College of Arts and Sciences and the independent publishing company Running Wild, LLC are pleased to announce the winner of the inaugural Running Wild Press Writing Contest. Congratulations to Jason Arehart, who has been awarded the first-place prize for his yet-untitled novel.  

The entire Drexel community was invited to submit a book-length manuscript (at least 50,000 words) of an original work of fiction to the contest. As the winning author, Arehart will receive a standard Running Wild book contract, which includes an upfront award of $200; net revenue of 40% for paperback, ebook and audiobook sales and the opportunity to offer the story for licensing.  

In addition to the first-place winner, two additional honorees were selected for second place: Adam Zahn for his novel, "Like Abraham" and Rylee Cella for her novel, "Sky on Fire." Both second place authors will receive high level feedback from the editors of Running Wild and RIZE.

“We here at the Drexel MFA are so proud to partner with Running Wild," said Nomi Eve, director of Drexel’s MFA in Creative Writing program. “This collaboration represents what we aim to do every single day — identify talented writers, nurture their craft and then connect them with industry leaders. The end goal is what we have here — compelling fiction by Drexel MFA writers making its way into readers' hands. Congratulations Jason, Adam and Rylee!” 

Drexel alum Lisa Kastner is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Running Wild, LLC. Kastner graduated from Drexel with a BS in communication in 2000 and went on to earn an MBA from Penn State and an MFA in creative writing from Fairfield University.

Kastner founded Running Wild on the belief that we can change the world through story. The publishing company amplifies stories that do not fit neatly in a box and gives voice to authors who are often underrepresented in the traditional publishing industry. With the Running Wild Press Writing Contest, Kastner is supporting Drexel’s young authors and offering her literary expertise to foster future talent. The second annual Running Wild Press Writing Contest will be announced in early 2025.