Community Retreat with Stacy Wells and Cameron Mukwa: Celebrating Native and Indigenous Stories

Spend four days and three nights in person with a supportive community of creatives as you write, create, share stories, and reflect on ways to move through the publishing industry with greater confidence. This retreat honors the history, contributions, and joy of Native, First Nation, and Indigenous voices in the children’s book field, offering time to connect with others while also making space for rest and independent work.

About the Program

This in-person retreat has been thoughtfully shaped by author Stacy Wells (Choctaw) and author/illustrator Cameron Mukwa (Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa) as a celebration of Native, First Nation, and Indigenous storytelling in children’s literature.

Andrea M. Page (Hunkpapa Lakota) helped develop this year’s retreat, and AJ Eversole will assist during the event. Publishing guests will include editor Nancy Paulsen and agent Kate Schafer Testerman.

Why this community retreat?

Founded by Traci Sorell (Cherokee) in 2022, this gathering was created to sustain Native creatives through shared time, creative exchange, and practical conversation. As Traci shared, being with fellow Native creatives offers support along the author’s journey and creates space to tell stories, make art, and talk honestly about publishing.

The schedule is intentionally light, with optional and informal group activities designed to leave room for your own process. You are welcome to bring multiple projects in different stages so you can choose what to focus on during your stay.

Tentative Agenda

Please bring any projects you would like to work on, whether you are starting with an idea, a draft, or a revision.

An optional extra day is available if you would like to extend your stay. If you are interested, please add that date at checkout. For any other questions, please contact our support team.

Day One: Monday, June 15, 2026

3 – 5pm Eastern: Arrival

5:30pm: Appetizers followed by dinner

7:15pm: Welcome and opening remarks from Stacy Wells and Cameron Mukwa

Day Two: Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Morning

Yoga (optional)

Breakfast

Retreat time

Afternoon

Retreat time

Publishing discussion with editor Nancy Paulsen

Evening

Appetizers & dinner

After dinner: Fireside chat

Day Three: Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Morning

Breakfast

Retreat time

Presentation with agent Kate Schafer Testerman

Afternoon

Retreat time

GROUP PHOTO

Evening

Appetizers & dinner

After dinner: Open mic

Day Four: Thursday, June 18, 2026

Morning

Breakfast

Packing and retreat time

Closing remarks from Stacy Wells and Cameron Mukwa

Afternoon

Lunch and farewells

What Level of Commitment is Expected During the Retreat?

As an in-person event at our Retreat Center, this program offers a chance to step away from everyday routines and fully enter the retreat experience. The focus is on independent creative time, along with informal gatherings with fellow participants.

Boyds Mills is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment. Community Standards will be shared before the workshop, and respectful engagement is expected from all participants, faculty, and staff.

How Does This Retreat Support Our Mission?

Our mission is to positively impact children by amplifying the voices of storytellers who educate, inspire, and help children become their best selves. As you grow and ground yourself in community, your work grows too. Join this community-centered program to connect, create, and amplify one another.

Can I Connect with Other Participants Prior to the Retreat?

At least one week before the retreat, you will receive access to a virtual classroom where you can introduce yourself to fellow writers and explore Boyds Mills resources, including Community Standards. This program is designed to support a safe, inclusive space for everyone involved.