Mount Madonna School alumna Shruti Swamy (’03), recently received recognition from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Swamy, who debuted her first novel “The Archer” this fall, was named a 2022 NEA Creative Writing Fellow. Her novel is a coming-of-age story set in Bombay in the 1960s and 1970s. Her 2020 short story collection, “A House is a Body,” was shortlisted for the PEN/Faulkner Award. The fellowship includes an $25,000 award.
“Having recently published my first two books, I find myself in a strange moment in my career—actually, a terrifying one,” commented Swamy in a personal statement on the NEA website. “I have finally been given the chance to speak, but will anyone listen? The yes I received from the National Endowment of the Arts is not just an affirmation of my past work, but of the work that is to come. With this award, I will be able to dedicate more time to my writing, itself a gift beyond measure. But this award, the incredible vote of confidence in my writing, is also lending me some courage as I move deeper into a new project, that bright yes in my ears as I leap forward into mystery.”
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Nestled among the redwoods on 375 acres, Mount Madonna School (MMS) is a diverse learning community dedicated to creative, intellectual, and ethical growth. MMS supports its students in becoming caring, self-aware, discerning and articulate individuals; and believe a fulfilling life includes personal accomplishments, meaningful relationships and service to society. The CAIS and WASC accredited program emphasizes academic excellence, creative self-expression and positive character development. Located on Summit Road between Gilroy and Watsonville. Founded in 1979.