One documented method shown to support and increase publication is through the implementation of writing retreats. Writing retreats allow for both time and physical distance away from other responsibilities, while including structured writing periods, peer mentoring, and educational sessions (Parsh & Hanson-Smith, 2018). The main goal of writing retreats is to support scholarship, which can lead to further research and grant funding. Writing retreats or workshops have been cited in the literature as improving collegial relationships, and providing writing support as well as increasing the number of publications and presentations in both academic and clinical nurses, and other disciplines (Bullion, & Brower, 2017; Kramer & Libhaber, 2016; Ness, Duffy, McCallum, & Price, 2014; Noone & Young, 2019).
Purpose: To provide a writing retreat (Writers’ Weekend) to further the scholarly efforts of tenure-track faculty in the College of Nursing to result in multiple journal publications.
Methods: A Writers’ Weekend was proposed by tenure-track faculty members. The proposal was supported by the Dean and jointly funded by the College of Nursing, and University. Two tenure-track faculty planned, initiated, and offered Writers’ Weekend to all tenure-track faculty. Seven faculty attended. A mixed methods descriptive approach was utilized to evaluate participant experience and outcomes. Anonymous illustrations and surveys were completed on arrival and departure to the weekend. Additional data related to the overall experience was collected after manuscripts were submitted.
Results: The Writers’ Weekend exceeded expectations for everyone who attended. Several participants indicated their goals for the weekend included limiting distractions, gaining focus, and dedicating time to developing their writing skills, all of which were achieved. Six manuscripts and one book revision were submitted by the deadline. The unanticipated yet extremely positive outcome was the inspiration and collegiality that developed during the weekend. There was a deepened sense of community felt by everyone. When participants were surveyed on departure about what they liked most about the weekend experience, one participant wrote, “Building a community of writers dedicated to helping advance both their colleagues and the science of nursing.”
Conclusion: The faculty-driven initiative, Writers’ Weekend provided the time and space tenure-track nursing faculty needed, free of other responsibilities, and distractions to grow and develop professionally. The three months immediately following the weekend allowed time for completing the draft, peer editing, and final revisions to ensure submission of manuscripts for publication. The Writers’ Weekend provided an additional level of support for nursing faculty that may assist them in reaching the publication standards set for progression and promotion to tenure. Enhancing relationships will hopefully lead to improved job satisfaction and retention of nursing faculty.