Writer found her voice at UR

Holly Payne ’94 was looking to obtain a strong liberal arts education and found that and more at the University of Richmond. As a journalism major, Payne found her voice while studying at UR and developed a passion for being a writing coach. She is now a published author, a writing coach, and the CEO of Skywriter Books.

During her time at the University of Richmond, Payne was involved in many activities that prepared her for the future. As part of Westhampton Student Government Association, she learned a lot about leadership and as a writer for the Collegian she was able to put her writing skills to use and gain journalism experience. These positions led her to an internship as a daily reporter for her hometown’s newspaper. Following her internship she talked with Career Services and learned of all the possibilities for her line of work.

Payne eventually received her MFA from University of Southern California and continued to pursue her passion for storytelling. She taught in the Bay area and is now an internationally published author of three books: The Virgin’s Knot, The Sound of Blue, and Kingdom of Simplicity. After completing her third novel, Payne decided to self-publish and launched her own publishing partnership called Skywriter Books.

“Skywriter Books offers an author-centric experience, grounded in transparency and integrity,” says Payne.

Her hopes with this endeavor were to provide a more empowering publishing experience focused on a partnership between the publisher and the author, offering editing as well as writing coaching and publishing advice strategies.

“One of the best experiences my ‘job’ offers is the collaboration in coaching other writers and helping them to reclaim their creativity and well being.”

Payne has returned to campus many times for speaking engagements and book readings. She also participated in the Real World Program, which brought alumni back to campus to talk about the many possibilities for career exploration after college.