Krista Foss named new Kingston WritersFest Festival Director

The acclaimed author and editor brings experience in organizing and managing festivals.

There is a new person in charge of Kingston WritersFest.

Acclaimed author and editor Krista Foss is the new Festival Director.

In a news release, Foss brings a rare combination of literary excellence, innovative event leadership, and dedicated community engagement to Kingston WritersFest.

Foss brings experience in organizing large festivals having been artistic director of gritLit: Hamilton Readers and Writers Festival. She also has worked with South Frontenac’s Wintergreen Studios and Almonte Readers and Writers.

“I’m excited and honoured to take on this role and work alongside such a dedicated team of literary and arts volunteers,” said Foss in a statement.

“Kingston WritersFest is a jewel of a Festival, well regarded, deeply rooted, and full of possibility.” 

Chair of Kingston WritersFest Eric Friesen says Foss' credentials stood out as a candidate and is thrilled to have someone of her calibre at the helm of the festival.

Foss will be tasked to plan the 18th edition of Kingston WritersFest happening Oct 1-4. She takes over from Merilyn Simonds who helped saved the festival from extinction last year after it faced several years of financial pressures.

Story by Ken Hashizume