CLARKSVILLE, TN – The National English Honor Society, Veritas Verba Chapter at the Middle College at Austin Peay State University, has earned national distinction with students Natalee (Rae) Daniels and Jessica Sun selected to present their literary research at the Sigma Tau Delta 2026 International English Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Their project—developed under the guidance of English instructor Mrs. Cresta McGowan—offers a feminist reading of Esch from Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward and Maggie from Cat on a Hot Tin Roof by Tennessee Williams. The students argue that silence and performative rambling—though seemingly opposite forms of expression—serve as parallel ways women “write themselves into the world.”
The proposal was chosen through the NEHS Convention Presentation Award, a national competition that provides full travel funding, lodging, meals, and complimentary registration for the event. This $4,000 honor allows them to share their scholarship alongside university presenters and hear from acclaimed authors including Jesmyn Ward, a two-time National Book Award winner, and Aimee Nezhukumatathil, a Pushcart Prize recipient.
“This recognition affirms that the humanities matter,” said McGowan. “Literature teaches empathy, critical thinking, and perspective—skills that are foundational to leadership and innovation in every field. Our students are not just analyzing texts; they are engaging in conversations that shape culture and human understanding.”
For Jessica Sun, the invitation carries personal significance.
“Growing up in a multi-language household, I was always nervous about how far I could take my studies in English,” Sun reflected. “At home I spoke Chinese; at school, English. I often struggled to express myself, but with the support of my teachers—especially Mrs. McGowan—I’ve grown confident enough to represent our school at the NEHS Convention. With my talented partner, Rae, I hope to make an impression in New Orleans and carry this experience into my future career.”
Daniels echoed that sentiment, emphasizing how the project highlights the power of language itself.
“Being recognized for this award is such an incredible honor,” Daniels said. “It reminds me how literature and language can bring people together and help us understand one another better.”
The Sigma Tau Delta Convention brings together students and faculty from around the world to celebrate excellence in literary study, creative writing, and critical thought. For Daniels and Sun, it represents a rare opportunity to present original research, attend professional panels, and immerse themselves in a vibrant academic community—all before they graduate from high school.
“It’s inspiring to see high school students recognized at a collegiate level for their intellectual curiosity and literary insight,” McGowan added. “Their work demonstrates that the humanities continue to challenge, illuminate, and connect us all.”