Kirtland Community College Students Shine with Top Creative Writing and Photography Honors at Michigan LAND Conference
By Kirtland Community College Communication and Marketing Department
GRAYLING, Michigan (February 24,2026) — Kirtland Community College celebrates two students, Kingsley Backstrom and Mandy Lee Andrews, who received statewide honors at the recent Michigan Liberal Arts Network for Development (LAND) Conference. Among students from other Michigan Community Colleges, Backstrom placed second in Creative Writing, while Andrews earned Honorable Mention in Photography.
The Michigan LAND Conference, an annual gathering that recognizes excellence in liberal arts, draws submissions from institutions throughout the state. Submissions are judged by educators who evaluate entries in five different categories: Creative Writing, Film, Fine Arts, Illustration/Graphic Design, and Student Scholars. To be honored at this level reflects both individual talent and a strong educational foundation.
Backstrom distinguished herself in the Creative Writing category, placing second overall in the state with her poetry submission. Competing against entries from larger institutions, Backstrom’s achievement underscores the caliber of students emerging from Kirtland.
“I genuinely feel so shocked about my piece being recognized at such a high level. I entered my piece just for fun and came out of it with a very exciting achievement,” said Backstrom. “I give a lot of credit to Kirtland as an institution and my instructors, as they both brought out a more creative side of me. My instructor, Cole Brayfield, was always there to answer any questions I had and pushed me to do my work to the absolute best of my ability. Kirtland as a whole has an environment that makes you feel supported no matter what, so it felt nice knowing I could go to anyone within the school and they would be there for me. “
In addition to the Creative Writing honor, Andrews received Honorable Mention in the Fine Arts competition for a powerful photo she captured. Like Backstrom, Andrews also competed against a pool of her peers, some coming from much larger institutions.
“I was very shocked to learn I received an honorable mention, as this was my first time entering a competition of this level. I was extremely privileged to represent Kirtland Community College's art program at this exhibit because they fostered and guided my creative and exploratory mind,” said Andrews. “Kirtland Community College has a great art community. The instructor, Scott Rice, goes above and beyond to assist his students, helping them find their full potential in their art goals. When I first attended class, all I knew was how to click a button on my camera to take a picture. Now, I better understand how to capture a beautiful photo, and through the use of various editing software, I have the ability to bring my pictures to life. My instructor and classmates have helped me by giving me advice and guiding me to be the best artist/photographer I can be.”
Recognition in Creative Writing and Photography shows the diverse talents at Kirtland and the quality of its English and visual arts programs. Hands-on instruction, modern equipment, and faculty support equip students to compete statewide.
Kirtland Vice President of Academic Affairs John Thiel praised the students, noting that success at statewide conferences affirms the institution’s mission and priorities.
“I'm so proud of these students for being celebrated for their talents among a huge pool of contestants from across the state,” said Thiel. “Most winners usually come from colleges with much larger enrollment that have more faculty members. It says a lot about the caliber of Kirtland’s students and our outstanding faculty that two of our students earned top honors in such competitive contests.”
Participation in the Michigan LAND Conference gives Kirtland students invaluable exposure. The event provides networking and feedback from seasoned judges and educators who aim to inspire and grow students’ talents. Many use it to benchmark work against peers statewide and gain insights for academic and professional growth.
For Backstrom and Andrews, these honors mark major milestones in their education. Both students embody the creativity and excellence that define Kirtland.
“The LAND Conference wasn’t something I was able to attend due to preexisting circumstances; it is something that I believe connects talented writers with peers just like them,” said Backstrom.
“To me, the LAND Conference means I had the ability to share my photography with a bigger audience, allowing them to see the world I captured through my camera lens,” said Andrews.
As Kirtland celebrates these achievements, the broader impact extends beyond individual accolades. Success at the state level reinforces Kirtland’s role as a leader in accessible, high-quality education. Despite its size, the college continues to provide opportunities that rival those of larger institutions, ensuring that students receive personalized attention, expert instruction, and meaningful learning. These recognitions serve as a powerful testament to Kirtland’s unwavering commitment to providing outstanding educational programs in which students can excel. By investing in innovative curriculum, dedicated faculty, and supportive learning environments, the institution empowers students to develop their talents and achieve distinction beyond the classroom.
About Kirtland Community College
Kirtland Community College has been inspiring excellence for over 50 years and offers courses in Grayling, Gaylord, and online. Our mission at Kirtland is to provide innovative educational opportunities to enhance student lives and build stronger communities. Through our offered educational programs, we believe Kirtland will be the first choice for learner-centered education guiding students and communities toward success. For more information about Kirtland Community College, visit Kirtland.edu, or call (989) 275-5000.
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