Adam Catlin Alumni Spotlight

For author and award-winning journalist Adam Catlin, the time he spent at Cowley College nearly three decades ago played a pivotal role in shaping the path that would eventually lead him to a successful career in writing.

Catlin attended Cowley College during several semesters between 1995 and 2000. Like many students beginning their college journey, he arrived with a plan that would soon evolve. Initially enrolling as a criminal justice major, Catlin believed he was following a practical career path, even though writing had always been a passion.

“I had been entertaining the thought of being a writer, but my father told me I had no life experience and no one would buy me as a writer,” Catlin said. “So, I decided to follow his path into law enforcement.”

That decision, however, did not last long. After less than a semester, Catlin realized he was trying to pursue a career that did not truly reflect who he was. With writing calling him back, he returned to Cowley College determined to pursue creative writing instead.

His time at Cowley was not without challenges. Living nearly 50 miles away in Sedan, Kansas, Catlin commuted regularly to campus while balancing work at a convenience store in his hometown. Despite the long drives, he remained committed to his education.

“I once drove through a blizzard to make it to finals in December of 1997,” Catlin recalled.

While the commute was demanding, the experiences and relationships Catlin developed on campus made the journey worthwhile. Several Cowley instructors left a lasting impression on him and helped shape his growth both academically and personally.

Among those who influenced him were sociology instructor Cathy Hendricks and speech instructor Dejon Ewing, both of whom helped him rebuild confidence in himself and his abilities. Literature instructor Lois Sampson also played a key role, introducing him to classic works that deepened his appreciation for storytelling.

It was in Sampson’s Intro to Literature class, however, that Catlin experienced one of the most pivotal moments of his time at Cowley. During the semester, a student named Andi joined one of his classes.

“She walked in on the third day of class in a black-and-white dress after coming from practice with the Cowley Singers,” Catlin said. “She believed in me as a writer.”

That belief proved to be life-changing. Encouraged by Andi’s support and the inspiration he found in the classroom, Catlin began writing again with renewed determination.

At the same time, another instructor was expanding his creative perspective in a different way. Music appreciation instructor Gary Gackstatter introduced Catlin to new artists and analytical approaches to music and culture.

“He introduced me to artists like Brian Eno and provided the most analysis of The Beatles I had ever seen up until that time,” Catlin said.

Those classroom experiences would later influence Catlin’s creative work. Drawing from his memories of Cowley College, he wrote his first novel, Until August, which was published in 2004. The book was inspired by his time on campus, and several of his later novels—including From Among the Dead and On a Clear Day, You Can See Conway—also feature settings and themes influenced by Cowley.

After his time at Cowley, Catlin continued pursuing his passion for writing by transferring to Southwestern College. There, he earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communications in 2002. During his time at Southwestern, he also gained early recognition for his work when his first screenplay, Waiting for Andrea, received acclaim.

From there, Catlin began building a career in journalism and storytelling. Over the years, he has worked for several newspapers, including the Wellington Daily News, while also contributing to college publications such as the Southwestern College Collegian and the Wichita State Sunflower.

Most recently, Catlin has spent the past three years writing for the Cowley CourierTraveler and the Newkirk Herald Journal. During that time, his work has earned multiple awards from the Kansas Press Association, recognizing his talent for reporting and storytelling.

Although Catlin ultimately graduated from Southwestern College, he credits Cowley College with helping him rediscover his voice and placing him on the path toward the career he enjoys today.

“There are people who come into your life and inspire you to be your very best,” Catlin said. “They help you become the best version of yourself.”

That connection to Cowley remains strong even today. Catlin still visits campus from time to time, often returning to familiar places that once sparked his creativity.

Looking back, Catlin encourages current students to believe in themselves and surround themselves with people who support their ambitions.

“Find people who believe in you,” Catlin said. “That can make all the difference.”

For Catlin, the lessons, relationships, and inspiration he discovered at Cowley College helped transform a young student unsure of his path into a writer whose stories now inform and inspire readers across the region.

Hunter Ferguson | Integrated Communications Specialist
Cowley College
125 S. 2nd Street
Arkansas City, KS 67005
hunter.ferguson@cowley.edu