About Us

Meet Our Staff

		Laura Tavolacci is our part-time administrative assistant. Laura was such an enthusiastic volunteer that we wanted to keep her around to help us out  and keep the office running smoothly. Laura is a graduate of the history program at UC Berkeley, and is awaiting word on her acceptance to graduate school. She plans to pursue a career in international and economic history, with an emphasis on the effects and uses of digital technology. Laura also is a budding writer and participated in the Open Mic at The Nature of Words 2007.
		Ellen Waterston, founder and Director of The Nature of Words, has made her living writing – as creative writer, journalist, writing instructor, and public relations specialist. She is a published author, award-winning poet, essayist and screenwriter, and a produced playwright. Simultaneously, she has devoted time and energy to The Writing Ranch, an enterprise dedicated to building and supporting the careers, craft and creative needs of the writer. Through writing retreats and writing workshops, Waterston helps emerging writers hone their craft and learn the business of writing. In 2005, Waterston’s dual passion for writing and promoting the literary arts converged in The Nature of Words.
		Louise Hawker, Assistant Director, has been involved in a support role with The Nature of Words for three years. Her responsibilities include public relations, coordination of schedules, vendors and venues, grantwriting, database and website management.