It is simply amazing that CSPA has been able to reach sixty years, especially considering the story behind the whole organization.
CSPA was started by Ralph and Millie Alexander and was originally just for male sports-writers. Obviously, it has progressed to the point where the girls surpass the boys in number and students learn about other genres of writing.
Ralph and Millie both died in 1981 within months of each other. And just before his death, Ralph asked nine former CSPA students and instructors to carry on the workshop. And they did so loyally and have been able to share the legacy Ralph and Millie left behind.
What was touching at the reunion tonight was seeing former CSPA students share their fondest memories about the workshop, but most went back to Ralph and the influence he had on their careers or just life. Ralph served as a mentor to so many of the current instructors and their fire for sharing their knowledge is so apparent. Larry Welborn always says that the reason why this workshop is the best is because each instructor volunteers their time. The impact Ralph left behind on these people is what makes them come back as well.
Seeing the Steve, Jay, Stan, Gil, Larry, and Art all interact is so precious and cute. They all bonded over CSPA and are all connected by Ralph. Their brotherhood is so admirable and I truly can see and appreciate what CSPA has provided for others and I know it has done the same for me.