Calliope, a Chapman University Student Literary Journal, was recently given the REALM Award (Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines) with a grade of “Superior”, the second-highest ranking possible. The award was based on the spring 2025 edition, which was edited by Laudan (Noor) Payne (’25 English Literature; Africana Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies minors).

The REALM Awards, given by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), are intended to give student-produced literary magazines statewide recognition for their creative vision and excellence. It provides a platform for students involved in its production to be showcased and appreciated, and encourages other schools and universities to create and support student-led literary and art publications.

“I was thrilled to have our issue recognized at the state level for its creative vision and diverse artistry,” said Payne.

According to Payne, the spring 2025 issue of Calliope was a testament to the contributors’ resilience and ambition. “It’s truly an honor and a privilege to interact with the students, alumni, and professors who help bring this magazine to life. I’ve always believed that as a magazine, our goal is to empower our authors and artists both within the Calliope community and our broader community of literaries and artists. The REALM award further supports that.”

Josh Olatunji (’26 Writing for Film and Television; English minor) worked as the managing editor of Calliope during the spring 2025 semester. Olatunji credits the leadership and chemistry of the board members for its success.

“Everyone on the board was returning from the previous semester, and we had all spent a lot of time together bonding and learning each other’s discussion and feedback habits. As a result, we were very in sync with each other in terms of what we looked for in submissions, and we were like-minded in giving sharp, detailed feedback to authors as they developed their pieces,” he said.  

According to Olatunji, Payne was very detail-oriented, on schedule throughout the process, and communicated exactly what she wanted from her editors.

“We were able to read, discuss, and give feedback to all the pieces in a good amount of time, and the magazine came out beautifully. I’m very grateful for the award, as it shed light on some of the hard work of my peers, especially Laudan.”

The current Editor-in-Chief of Calliope, Halle Ahn (‘26 Creative Writing, French), also acknowledges Payne for the success of the magazine. “The issue turned out beautiful because she curated a mini community within Calliope where we were all selflessly excited to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. I can honestly say that I have learned so many lessons from both of them (Payne and Olatunji) as leaders, lessons that I carry with me this semester as Editor-in-Chief for the spring 2026 issue,” said Ahn.

Congratulations to the entire Calliope team!

(Pictured in header: Calliope Literary Magazine Spring 2025 launch party. Photo courtesy of Laudan (Noor) Payne.)