Veteran Wellness Creative Class
This is a new program and the first of its kind in Michigan!
The Veteran Wellness Creative Class represents a completely new model for serving veterans – combining guided creative writing, visual design, trauma-informed wellness support, and the publication of a dedicated literary journal created entirely by veterans.
The guided writing and design workshops will be led by University Liggett School educators, Kelsey Ronan and Elizabeth Wagenschutz, both accomplished teachers and professional writers with deep community ties. They will work to engage veterans in memoir, poetry, fiction, and visual layout to develop both creative and technical skills. By the end of the program, veterans will publish a high-quality literary journal featuring their work, culminating in a public reading event to honor and share veterans’ creative contributions with the broader community.
Additionally, Marine Corps veteran Darren Lapsley will lead the visual design aspect of the class. Lapsley is a certified Art Life Coach, multidisciplinary artist, and wellness advocate.
In partnership with The Family Center, participants will have access to trauma-informed emotional support throughout the program. Licensed Professional Counselor and Navy veteran Byron Branham will be on hand to work with veterans. Branham’s military experience led him to enter the mental health field, specializing in the treatment of trauma and PTSD. He has effectively assisted a broad spectrum of clients from many walks of life, including military veterans and first responders, their families, and survivors of tragedy and crime.
Please note this six-week class is for veterans and occurs on Mondays, beginning on Sept. 28 and concluding on Nov. 2.
This class is possible thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Legacy Funds Grosse Pointe Community Assets Program.