MAYBORN LITERARY NONFICTION CONFERENCE
IMPACT REPORT
2024
Sustaining the Legacy of Narrative Journalism
Sue, your generosity and philanthropic spirit help us cultivate a community where storytelling is not only honored but also encouraged. Because of your support, we inspire the next generation of storytellers to pursue their passions and craft their unique narratives, ensuring that your legacy of narrative journalism flourishes for years to come. We are honored to share this update on the Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference, which just celebrated its 20th anniversary. Your generous contributions have had a transformative impact on the University of North Texas, creating a vibrant learning environment where creativity drives discovery and innovation.
Brittany McElroy , senior lecturer in broadcasting at the Mayborn School of Journalism, opens the second day of the conference with a warm welcome.
Celebrating the Power of Storytelling
The Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference brings together writers, students and enthusiasts to celebrate and explore the power of storytelling. Thanks to your visionary support, the conference continues to thrive, fostering literary excellence and providing a platform for diverse voices in narrative nonfiction. Your philanthropy enables us to invite esteemed speakers – including Pulitzer Prize winners – creating invaluable opportunities for students to learn from the best in the industry and paving the way for their success.
Ibrahim Nash'At discusses the showing of his documentary feature, Hollywoodgate , during a session hosted by Tania Khalaf, associate chair and professor of media arts at the Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference. The film, shot in Afghanistan, explores the Taliban's takeover after the U.S. pullout.
Impact of the Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference
The Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference has become a cornerstone for narrative journalism, impacting writers, students and the broader community. Each year, the conference offers workshops, panels and networking opportunities that equip attendees with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their craft. Participants have the unique opportunity to engage with renowned authors, journalists, and industry leaders, gaining insights that help them navigate the ever-evolving landscape of storytelling. The conference not only promotes the importance of narrative nonfiction but also creates a supportive environment where emerging voices can connect with established professionals.
SPEAKER ENGAGEMENT 40+ Pulitzer Prize winners & finalists
FINANCIAL SUPPORT $230,000+ in prizes &
3,000+ individuals have participated since its inception in 2004 ATTENDANCE
writer support awarded since 2006
have graced the conference stage
Fosters connections among professional writers, students and literary enthusiasts, enriching the narrative journalism community COMMUNITY BUILDING
The conference attracts a dynamic and diverse audience, with attendees generally comprising three main groups: professional writers, students (including recent graduates) and literary enthusiasts. Over the years, the conference has awarded more than $230,000 in prizes and writer support, directly contributing to the success of many storytellers. These awards recognize outstanding work and provide critical resources that empower participants to continue their journeys in storytelling.
Thorne Anderson , professor and holder of the Mayborn Endowed Chair in Narrative and Multimedia Journalism, delivered a compelling speech at the closing ceremony, officially concluding the two-day conference.
Christopher Wynn of The Dallas Morning News hosts a panel on sports journalism featuring Sarah Hepola , center, and Rustin Dodd , right. Hepola created the Texas Monthly podcast "America’s Girls," which is an eight-part series exploring the lost history and cultural impact of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Dodd, a reporter at The Athletic , co-authored Kingdom Quarterback: Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs, and How a Once Swingin' Cow Town Chased the Ultimate Comeback.
Neil Foote , executive director of Frisco marketing strategy at UNT’s Division of University Brand Strategy and Communications, asks a question during a session. Foote is a former Mayborn Conference director and faculty member.
Looking Ahead The Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference remains a vital platform for narrative journalism. The conference plays a crucial role in enhancing the national reputation of the school and provides invaluable networking opportunities for students and faculty – connections that are vital for students seeking internships and jobs, as well as for faculty engaged in professional and academic projects. While the conference continues to uphold its mission, the costs associated with staging the event remain high. We have taken measures to reduce the conference’s budget in recent years due to reduced attendance and declining donor/sponsor support. We are evaluating the sustainability of the current format and are assessing changes to allow the conference to remain relevant and in alignment with our current curriculum. Your Gifts Make a Difference Sue, thanks to your support, the Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Conference has become a cornerstone of narrative journalism. Your contributions enable us to continue fostering a community of storytellers and inspiring future generations. Together, we will navigate the challenges ahead and ensure that the conference continues to thrive as a beacon for literary excellence. Thank you for being a vital part of this journey. We look forward to building this legacy together.
Financial Overview The conference operates with a budget that includes nearly $25,000 from the endowment’s expendable funds. These resources are fully utilized to support the conference’s operations, ensuring its financial sustainability and the delivery of a high-quality experience for all participants. Specific expenditures have been reviewed and continue to align with the conference’s strategic priorities.
AS OF AUGUST 31, 2024
Date Gift(s) Received Est. in 2010 group funding $10MM gift 06/06/2007 amended at market value on 03/16/17
Mayborn Literary Nonfiction Endowment Fund FINANCIAL UPDATE Provided by the UNT Foundation Inc. Mayborn Scholarship Endowment Fund Mayborn Endowed Chair in Journalism Mayborn Graduate Institute Endowment Fund
Foundation Fees 2 $ (4,713)
Distributions to UNT $ (13,195)
Market Value
Gift Amount(s) $ 39,200
Investment Income 1 $ 25,351
$
46,643
2,087,697
(222,979)
(1,120,870)
4,407,656
3,663,808
875,110
(113,729)
(514,373)
1,835,697
1,588,689
3,021,325
(307,109)
(1,576,409)
6,390,304
5,252,497
$ 6,009,483
$ (648,530)
$(3,224,847)
$12,680,300
Total
$10,544,194
Note 1 – The investment income and historical returns presented are net of individual investment manager fees, but gross of the foundation’s management fee. This method aligns with standard NACUBO reporting practices and ensures comparability to our peers. Our benchmark sets a high standard for performance at 75% equity, 20% fixed income and 5% cash. Note 2 - The management fee charged by the foundation encompasses accounting, internal investment management services and coordination with Advancement, college deans, donors and other university partners. Our fee remains competitive, being at or below the endowment management fees of our peers, as reported by NACUBO.
PORTFOLIO ALLOCATION
SUMMARY
DETAIL
Growth Assets
Income Oriented
Growth Assets
37.3% US Listed Equity 22.8% International Equity 9.1% Real Assets 5.5% Private Equity
25.3%
Income Oriented
8.9% US Aggregate 4.4% Active Duration 4.4% Unconstrained 2.8% Private Fixed Income 1.6% Hedge Funds 3.2% Cash
74.7%
Asset Class Growth Assets Income Oriented
Allocation
Target 75.0% 25.0%
74.7% 25.3%
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