The Ogden School Foundation is set to celebrate its 30th annual Fall Author Event on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, according to a September 28 report. This year's milestone fundraiser will feature author Ann Patchett as the keynote speaker at the Ogden Eccles Conference Center.
Ann Patchett, the owner of Nashville's Parnassus Books, has written ten acclaimed novels, including Bel Canto, Commonwealth, The Dutch House, and Tom Lake. Her tenth novel, Whistler, was released in June 2026. The event's gala will include a student writing contest inspired by Patchett’s book These Precious Days, where winners will receive a $100 award, a signed book, and the chance to meet the author. While 10 high school winners will be recognized at the gala, scheduling conflicts will prevent Patchett from meeting with essay winners or speaking at a student assembly as has occurred in previous years.
The foundation will also host author Brandon Mull on Oct. 6. In a partnership with Utah Humanities and Operation Literacy, Mull will address approximately 900 sixth and seventh grade students at Ogden High School. This book drop event will provide each student with a signed copy of his newest book. Ogden School Foundation Executive Director Brynn Murdock stated that hosting both an adult and a young adult author helps expand the foundation's mission of boosting literacy.
The Fall Author Event began in 1996 with author Ray Bradbury. Over the last 30 years, the event has featured authors such as George Plimpton, Shelby Foote, Ken Burns, Amy Tan, David McCullough, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Anthony Horowitz, and Sy Montgomery. The foundation selects authors through an author selection committee and works with literary agents and community recommendations. A generous donor helps cover costs to maintain the event's fundraising capabilities.
Murdock noted that the event's longevity is due to a community of philanthropists, educators, and members who are committed to supporting Ogden School District students and educators. More information regarding the event can be found at https://www.ogdenschoolfoundation.org/o/ogdenschoolfoundation/page/fall-author-event.
