Like many program directors at UI, a lot of D’Agata’s time is spent pushing papers, literally and figuratively. He helps shape the curriculum; schedules visiting editors, writers and publishers; organizes student awards and makes sure every graduate student in the program is fully funded.

But he also gets to organize more nontraditional events, like program-wide bowling parties and readings at Sanctuary Pub in Iowa City. These small, social events create what D’Agata hopes is a “happier program” and to make sure “the feeling of community is here.”