Meet the NHWP Team: Q&A with Kelly Chausovsky

This post is part of our ongoing “Meet the Team” series, where we introduce the dedicated individuals who help shape and support the NH Writers’ Project (NHWP). Each conversation highlights the unique backgrounds, passions, and perspectives that make our community stronger.

Today, we’re excited to spotlight Kelly Chausovky, the Programming Director for the NH Writers’ Project and a member of the Board of Trustees. A writer, editor, and writing coach based in Southern New Hampshire, Kelly brings deep experience across both the creative and publishing worlds. She holds a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Texas and is currently pursuing a second master’s in creative writing and literature through Harvard Extension School. A former language arts teacher, senior editor at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, and graduate of the Denver Publishing Institute, Kelly was also awarded the 2024 Elizabeth George Foundation grant for emerging writers. Her poetry has appeared in Brattle Street Review, and she’s currently preparing her first young adult novel for publication. Outside of writing, Kelly enjoys adventuring with her husband, two kids, and rescue dog.

We asked Kelly a few questions about her journey, her role with NHWP, and her personal connection to books and literature.

What inspired you to join the NH Writers’ Project board?

I recently completed an on-campus summer residency in Cambridge as part of my master’s program, and one of the most impactful takeaways for me was just how influential—and genuinely cup-filling—it is to work within a close community of writers. Writing can be a solitary, isolating endeavor if we let it. When I returned to New Hampshire, I felt strongly motivated to do whatever I could to help foster that same sense of community back home through the NH Writers’ Project.

What unique skills or experiences do you bring that help advance NHWP’s mission?

I’ve worn a lot of literary hats! Over the years, I’ve been a writing teacher, writing coach, editor for a large publishing company, freelance editor, novelist, poet, and short story author. I’m also a graduate of a publishing institute. I hope that this varied background allows me to support NHWP members wherever they are in their writing journey—whether they’re drafting their first pages, revising a manuscript, or navigating the publishing world.

What advice would you give to emerging writers looking to get more involved in the literary community?

Jump in! Say yes! It can be hard to show up and interact with strangers—and even harder to share your work with them. It can feel a bit like baring your soul. But the literary community needs people who will show up for each other (and for themselves) and bravely put their work into the world. Register for the workshops, the meet-ups, the award celebrations, and the conferences. You won’t regret the community that follows.

What’s the first book you ever loved—or the one that made you want to write?

The one I always come back to is The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster. It was surprising, funny, touching, and incredibly insightful—and it sparked a lifelong love of puns.

What book is currently on your nightstand (or e-reader)?

I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika Sánchez.

Do you have a favorite writing spot or ritual?

I love the romantic idea that bits of my stories have been born all over the world. I often bring my laptop to the beach, the forest, or a new coffee shop—and definitely on vacation.