Words That Move: Prism Launch Showcases Student Creativity at the University of Lynchburg 

By Aisha Marilyn Abdulbary-Knotts | Staff Writer

On Thursday night, the University of Lynchburg celebrated the annual release of its literary and arts magazine, Prism. The event welcomed students, faculty, and friends to witness a mix of poetry, short stories, and visual art submission from students. 

While student expression took center stage, the ambiance was filled with vulnerability and power.

A few contributors took to the floor to read their work aloud, speaking on themes of self-identity, love, defiance, and rebirth; each performance marked a moment of authenticity in storytelling.

One of the standout readings was by Madison Crow ’26, who read her deeply compelling poem, “Extra.” In it, she spoke of her brother with Down syndrome as the “extra” that the world chooses to impose. While others may acknowledge him, they fail to understand and connect with him as a person the way she does–a testament to sibling connection. Crow’s words were gentle yet fierce, extolling love, frustration, and radical advocacy. The audience sat still, enveloped in the guttural truth of her performance.

Another memorable moment occurred when Asher Stang ’25 and Evan Gates ’26 took the stage to dedicate a poem to their significant others. Stang’s piece, titled “Easy,” explores the effortless joy of love. Stang’s sincere delivery and gentle tone stirred the crowd, drawing smiles and soft gasps. It was a quiet reminder of how pure and unforced love resonates universally. 

Gates’ work, “A Poem For You,” was a moving piece about the anticipation of marriage and the joy of a shared union. The audience responded warmly, touched by the honest celebration of love’s next chapter.

The visual artworks that lined the pages of the magazine confronted the literary creations with bold explorations of color, form, and meaning. From haunting charcoal portraits to the surreal realm of digital collages, the visuals added another layer of meaning to the voices presented in Prism.

Prism editor V’Dell Newton ’25 spoke about her passion for highlighting independent work from passionate creators.

“In the past, I worked with a lot of magazines and I enjoy reading independent work,” Newton said. “When the opportunity arose, I just knew it was something I would be passionate about.” 

Newton continued, “I like to see people developing as creators, and I wanted people to express themselves without that huge fear of boundaries.”

For many students, it was more than just an art show. It was an affirmation of creativity at a time when young voices may be ignored or drowned out. For them, Prism provides the space for their work and message to be heard and celebrated.

Lingering conversations and budding friendships marked the close of the event. Some guests took home a copy of Prism to revisit the event privately, while others departed eager to submit next year.

In a world that often rushes past quiet truths, the Prism launch paused to let them echo.

Contributors can receive a free copy of this year’s issue by emailing Dr. Kelly Jacobson