Lake Michigan College Students Win Statewide LAND Writing Awards

Benton Harbor, MI – Lake Michigan College (LMC) students Emily Karpinski and Kevina Clear have been recognized for their outstanding creative writing skills in the statewide Liberal Arts Network for Development (LAND) Creative Writing Competition. 

Karpinski earned 1st place in the Creative Nonfiction category for her essay “The Perpetual Stranger,” while Clear was awarded 2nd place in the Fiction category for her short story “Blu Stocking: A Hero is Born.” 

LAND, founded by Dr. Peter Kim at Henry Ford College, serves as a platform for recognizing exceptional student talent across Michigan’s 28 community colleges. The competition features three genres—fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry—with students first competing at their home institutions before advancing to the statewide level. 

Karpinski’s essay was praised by judges as “rich in detail and complexity of subject.” The piece explores the emotional remnants of a father’s passing and the profound impact of parent-child relationships. The judges noted, “This honest account of a fraught parent-child relationship beautifully illustrates how lifelong human connections are a muddled mess of pain and joy, far from black and white.” 

Clear’s short story delivers a creative and entertaining narrative about a teacher who discovers her superpowers—while also showcasing her impeccable taste in socks. Judges commended the piece, stating, “This author, in one short story, proved that teachers, librarians, and the books themselves really are heroes—whether they wear costumes or not.” 

Both Karpinski and Clear have been invited to share their award-winning works at LMC’s IdeaCon in April, where they will present their writing to an audience of students, faculty, and community members. 

About Lake Michigan College 

Lake Michigan College is a public, non-profit community college serving Southwest Michigan. With campuses in Benton Harbor, Niles, and South Haven, LMC offers associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs to prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions or direct entry into high-demand careers. Committed to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement, LMC provides accessible, affordable, and high-quality education to learners of all backgrounds. For more information, visit www.lakemichigancollege.edu.