Since 1994 City Works has published poetry, fiction, prose and artwork of City College Students, along with the work of local, national and international writers and artists.

More than 50 percent of the work published is by student writers, poets and artists. The creative writing pieces are chosen by the student editors of English 249: Introduction to Creative Writing Honors course that is team-taught by the City College Creative Writing faculty, which includes Chris Baron, Nancy Cary, Nadia Mandilawi, Hector Martinez, Jim Miller and Donna J. Watson.

The students in the course evaluate every submission, and their rankings determine the best in fiction, poetry, creative non-fiction and cover design.

The faculty editors select the featured writer from a pool of noteworthy local authors. The winner of the National Award is chosen by faculty editors from a pool of hundreds of submissions from around the country.

The intention is to create a journal that reflects the identity and character of San Diego City College, as well as to provide a venue for emerging local artists, broaden the national reach and encourage interaction between the school and the community.

Beginning every fall semester, City Works accepts the following types of submissions:

The best student entries in cover design, poetry, personal essay, prose/fiction and artwork are awarded $100 dollars.

This year’s student winners include Norell Martinez for poetry, Melissa Kemp for fiction, Angela D’Avignon for creative non-fiction and Lisa Gavin for photography.

Eugene Brown, staff member of the Graphic Design Department, designed this year’s journal cover.

Laurel Corona was the local featured writer and is also a faculty member at City College

Lynn Veach Sadler was the national featured writer.