VOICES Vol. 13 was a lucky one for several students, faculty and staff members of West Georgia Technical College who walked away from the unveiling event of the college’s literary magazine with cash prizes for their submissions.

The creative arts magazine was unveiled at an event held on the college’s Douglas Campus Thursday night, with awards handed out in the five genres featured in the publication: short fiction, poetry, photography, art and short non-fiction.

VOICES editor-in-chief, English instructor Lisa Cunningham, said she was pleased both with the “quantity and quality” of submissions received for this year’s magazine.

“We had more than 100 great submissions, which is way more than we usually have,” Cunningham said. “The six winners in each category were chosen anonymously by our four student editors, and we’re excited for these WGTC students and employees to get the recognition they deserve.”

Established in 2004, VOICES is published annually by WGTC. The magazine seeks to showcase the best examples of the creative spirit that is “alive and well at WGTC,” Cunningham said. Submissions are solicited year-round and are welcome from all current and recently graduated students, as well as staff and faculty members and members of all WGTC boards and committees.

The magazine is free for WGTC students and employees and can be picked up starting next week.

Three third-place winners were chosen in each genre of the magazine, with each winner receiving a check for $25. Two second-place winners in each category received $50, and the first-place winner in each category received a check for $100. Some students who submitted more than one piece received multiple awards.

Three attendees also walked away with brand new Kindle Fires, which were raffled off during the event. Students in the culinary arts program at the Douglas Campus prepared and served a light meal to attendees, as well.

Student editors, who anonymously judge and award the winners in each category, are encouraged to volunteer to assist with selections, compilation and publication of the magazine. For more information about how to become a student editor, email [email protected].