Nancy Owen Nelson
Nancy Owen Nelson is a writer and Professor of English based in the United States whose career spans more than five decades in education, scholarship, and creative nonfiction. Born at Madigan Hospital in Fort Lewis, Washington, she grew up in a military family that relocated frequently across the United States, an experience that deeply shaped her perspective, adaptability, and voice as a writer. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English and French from Birmingham-Southern College and went on to complete both her MA and PhD in Liberal Arts at Auburn University, finishing her doctorate in August 1979.
Dr. Nelson began her journey in education in the 1970s during her graduate studies and entered college teaching in 1979, beginning a long academic career that included approximately 25 years teaching in Michigan, followed by a period in Arizona after her husband’s retirement, and a return to Michigan to continue teaching. When including her graduate school years, her experience in the field spans 50 years. Her inspiration for education came from her mother, a lifelong teacher with degrees in French, English, and Latin, who briefly taught high school in Alabama in 1927–28 before being required to leave the profession due to marriage restrictions of the time. Despite this, her mother continued tutoring others well into her 90s, sharing her love of language, grammar, poetry, and classical studies.
Throughout her academic career, Dr. Nelson was an active scholar and contributor to literary studies, including her involvement with the Western American Literature Association and her academic publications focused on key literary figures. Over time, her work evolved from traditional literary criticism to creative nonfiction, reflecting her deep appreciation for personal narrative and lived experience. After the passing of her husband, she returned to her home state of Alabama, where she has remained active in community engagement in Florence. Now retired from formal teaching, she continues to write, assist with publication work, and remain engaged in literary and community activities. Her special interests include writing, dining out, and enjoying the outdoors, all of which continue to enrich her creative life.
• Birmingham-Southern College - BA, English and French
• Auburn University Liberal Arts College - MA
• Auburn University Liberal Arts College - PhD
• Phi Theta Kappa
• Mortar Board
• Western American Literature Association
• AAUW
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a genuine love of learning and continuous education, as well as being highly goal-driven and detail-oriented in everything I do. I have always been passionate about writing and storytelling, and I naturally enjoy reaching out to connect with people through clear and meaningful communication. These qualities have consistently guided my growth, kept me adaptable, and allowed me to stay focused on achieving both personal and professional goals.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to make space for the new by staying present, curious, and open to growth. I have learned the importance of asking thoughtful questions, embracing change rather than resisting it, and continuously seeking opportunities to learn from every experience. Equally important has been the reminder to be a good listener, as it allows me to understand others more deeply, strengthen collaboration, and make more informed and effective decisions in my work.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to be open and honest in all interactions, and to trust in your abilities and know your worth. It is important to understand that you do not need to have all the answers from the start learning is part of the journey. Stay confident, ask questions, and remain willing to grow, while never undervaluing the unique perspective and strengths you bring to the table.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in my field is the ability to continue writing and share my stories with a wider audience, with the hope that others will enjoy and connect with my novels. At the same time, there are challenges in staying relevant in an ever-evolving publishing landscape and reaching readers in meaningful ways. However, these challenges also create opportunities to grow as a writer, explore new platforms, and continue refining my voice while building lasting connections with readers who appreciate my work.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are perseverance and never giving up on my dreams, as well as taking the time to discover and pursue what truly makes me happy. I believe in leading by example, treating others with kindness and respect, and striving to make a positive difference in the lives of those around me. These principles guide my decisions, shape how I show up each day, and keep me grounded in purpose and integrity.
Locations
Western Literature Association
Florence, AL 35630