19th Annual Rochester Writers’ Conference Overview
Fiction, Non Fiction, Craft, and Business Topics presented as Lectures, Workshops, and Panel Discussions. Featuring Michigan Authors, Speakers, Agents, and Educators.
- Saturday | October 17, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Held in the Oakland Center at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan
Whether you’re starting your very first story, polishing your latest manuscript, or exploring new ways to share your words with the world, this is your day to connect, learn, and be inspired. The Rochester Writers’ Conference brings together writers, literary agents, and industry professionals for an energizing day filled with ideas, tools, and connections to fuel your writing journey. Come ready to discover fresh perspectives, strengthen your craft, and join a community that celebrates the power of words.
One Registration to attend the 2026 Fall Rochester Writers’ Conference. Includes keynote, breakout sessions, coffee, snacks, lunch, and parking. Check-in will begin at 9:00 a.m. with the first session 10:00 a.m. The conference will end by 5:00 p.m.
- ADVANCE REGISTRATION | Available ONLINE until August 1, 2026 | $175.00
- REGULAR REGISTRATION | Available ONLINE until October 1, 2026 | $195.00
- LATE REGISTRATION | Available ONLINE until October 16, 2026 | $215.00
- AT THE DOOR REGISTRATION | Available ON SITE on October 17, 2026 | $225.00
There will be multiple breakout sessions throughout the day for attendees to select from to best fit their writing goals.
2026 Presentations:
- Morning Keynote Address – Sara Maurer
- Afternoon Featured Speakers – Author Illustrator Team Karen and Darrin
- Literary Agent Panel – Meet our literary agents with this engaging Q&A session
- Self-Published Indie Author Panel – Q&A self-publishing session with three indie authors
- The Top Three Revision Techniques I Learned from my Editor
- Audio Book Narration
- Making The Most Of Your Book Signing
- And More
2026 Speakers:
- Sara Maurer
- Karen Bell-Brege
- Darrin Brege
- Linda S. Glaz (Literary Agent)
- Carrie Howland (Literary Agent)
- Alice Speilburg (Literary Agent)
- Kristin Bartley Lens
- Rachael Doolan
- Brenda Hasse
- And More
One-on-One Appointments (add-on)
Literary Agent / Author Meetings
Our Literary Agents will host a panel discussion to start the day. And they will meet with attendees (as an add on). 10-minute appointments available for a $30 fee to registered attendees. For Carrie Howland, please bring a query letter and the first 10-pages of your book. For Linda S. Glaz, please bring the first few pages of your book.
Appointments will be made available after conference registration has been received starting in early October.
Attendees may bring a fully charged laptop or tablet. Although not necessary, a computer will enhance the experience with a hands-on feel. Use the hashtag: #RochesterWriters before, during and after the event in your posts, likes, and tweets.
Fresh hot coffee and tea available throughout the day. Light breakfast snacks and a full lunch included with registration. Please contact us if you have special dietary concerns. A charging station will be available for mobile devices in the registration area.
Attendees will be able to choose one presentation per session time at the conference. Schedule could change without notice – Rochester Writers reserves the right to add, subtract, or substitute any of the presentations and speakers. Thank you.
Please Note: All events take place in the Oakland Center of Oakland University (312 Meadow Brook Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326). Use the parking lot (P1) and walk East for the shortest distance into the Oakland Center. Use the Interactive Map to zoom in and view parking and building information. The Oakland Center is positioned between the parking lot and the Clock Tower. Look for Bright Yellow Signs. The Oakland Center on this Campus Map (zoom in for a better view).
Rochester Writers 