Atia Abawi Completes First Visit as Author-in-residence

It’s been a whirlwind two-weeks for Atia Abawi, who completes the first of three visits as University School of Milwaukee’s first-ever author-in-residence on Friday, Oct. 21. Since her arrival on Monday, Oct. 10, Abawi’s schedule was packed with classroom visits in all three divisions, writing workshops, lunches with students and faculty, and planning meetings. 

“USM has held a special place in my heart from my very first visit in 2019 and I’m so honored to be welcomed back in this capacity,” said Abawi. “I’ve had such a wonderful time working with the incredible students, faculty, and meeting some of the amazing parents. I can’t wait to dive in even deeper in the forthcoming trips.”

Abawi also participated in an Upper School student assembly with Maryam Durani, renowned Afghan women’s rights activist and one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influential people, on Wednesday, Oct. 19. Durani survived two assassination attempts, after being targeted by the Taliban for her work to promote women’s rights, and is now living in Milwaukee. Abawi spoke to her about her refugee journey, her work to promote women in Afghanistan, and her life in Milwaukee. Durani's visit was covered by CBS58 news. 

“I was struck by Atia’s ability to meaningfully connect with so many of our constituents and guests,” said Amy Hand, assistant head of school for teaching and learning. “From providing a space for Maryam Durani to share her story with Upper School students, to listening deeply to 4th grade students share family stories in their library class, to sharing her personal and journalistic perspective on our Common Trust tenet of fairness with employees, Atia’s impact has already been broad and profound. I’m so excited by the way we will continue to benefit as a community from both the intellectual stimulation she provides and her great capacity for empathy and human connection.”

Abawi will return to USM on January 23, 2023, when she will begin her second visit as USM’s author-in-residence. The author-in-residence program was arranged by Kat Zilka, Upper School English teacher, and Laura Klein, Upper School librarian, with further support from faculty at each division level. It is sponsored by a Think Big grant, an endowed fund supported by generous donors so that USM teachers can apply for funding to obtain curricular enhancements and to engage in professional development opportunities.