Stories from the Heart

Elise Geither is a writer, teacher, and longtime educator in higher education, with a career shaped by a deep belief in language as both craft and lifeline. For decades, her work with students—particularly those whose voices are often overlooked—helped them find clarity, confidence, and power on the page. That commitment to expression, access, and empathy has guided both her teaching and creative work.

Geither’s publications span academic writing, fiction, poetry, and theater. The academic text Helping Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders Express Their Thoughts and Knowledge in Writing reflects the work she had done supporting neurodiverse writers in higher education. As a creative writer, Geither is the author of the young adult novel The Deer and the forthcoming novel Once We Forget, as well as multiple poetry and performance chapbooks. Her plays and monologues have been produced across the United States, from intimate black box theaters to established regional stages.

Geither’s career work has been recognized with Diversity and Inclusion Awards from Case Western Reserve University, nominations for mentoring and writing instruction, and multiple writing awards and nominations including Lamia Ink! and Moondance. Whether on the page, in the classroom, or on the stage, her focus remains the same: telling human stories with honesty, care, and emotional depth—and helping others do the same.