Gartner: A Career in Canadian Journalism and Literature
From the prairies of Manitoba to the coastal landscapes of British Columbia, Gartner has built a multifaceted career as a journalist, editor, and author. With a deep commitment to the written word, her professional journey spans some of Canada's most prestigious news publications and academic institutions.
Educational Foundation
Gartner's academic background provided a diverse foundation for her literary pursuits. Born on May 4, 1960, in Winnipeg and raised in Calgary, she began her higher education at the University of Calgary, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science. She further specialized her skills by obtaining an honours degree in journalism from Carleton University in Ottawa.
To refine her creative voice, she pursued a Master of Fine Arts from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, the city where she currently resides.
Professional Journalism and Editorial Work
Gartner established herself as a versatile journalist, contributing to a wide array of newspapers and magazines. Her portfolio includes work for prominent outlets such as The Globe and Mail, the Vancouver Sun, and Canadian Business. She also contributed to specialized publications including Quill & Quire, The Georgia Straight, Western Living, and Saturday Night.
Beyond reporting, she held significant leadership roles in the editorial world, serving as a senior editor at Saturday Night and as the books editor for The Georgia Straight.
Literary Contributions and Academic Influence
While well-known for her journalistic work, Gartner is also an accomplished writer of short stories. In 1999, she published a collection of these works titled All the Anxious Girls on Earth.
Her expertise has been recognized by academic institutions, leading to her appointment as a writer-in-residence at the University of British Columbia. Additionally, she has served as a faculty member at the Banff Centre's Writing Studios, helping to shape the next generation of writers.
Advocacy and Entrepreneurship
Gartner's passion for literature extends to public discourse and mentorship. In 2004, she appeared on the CBC program Canada Reads, where she defended Mordecai Richler's novel Barney's Version.
Furthering her commitment to creative education, she founded and currently directs the Writers Adventure Camp located in Whistler, British Columbia.
Key Facts
- Born: May 4, 1960, in Winnipeg.
- Education: Degrees from University of Calgary, Carleton University, and University of British Columbia.
- Notable Publication: All the Anxious Girls on Earth (1999).
- Key Roles: Senior Editor at Saturday Night and Books Editor at The Georgia Straight.
- Entrepreneurship: Founder and Director of Writers Adventure Camp in Whistler.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Degrees | BA Political Science, Honours Journalism, MFA |
| Major Publications | Vancouver Sun, The Globe and Mail, Canadian Business |
| Literary Works | Short story collection "All the Anxious Girls on Earth" |
| Teaching/Mentorship | UBC Writer-in-Residence, Banff Centre Faculty |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Gartner study journalism?
Gartner received an honours degree in journalism from Carleton University in Ottawa.
What is the title of Gartner's short story collection?
Her collection of short stories is titled All the Anxious Girls on Earth, published in 1999.
Which novel did Gartner defend on CBC's Canada Reads?
She defended Mordecai Richler's novel Barney's Version during the 2004 competition.
What is the Writers Adventure Camp?
The Writers Adventure Camp is an organization founded and directed by Gartner, located in Whistler, British Columbia.
Which editorial positions has Gartner held?
She has served as a senior editor at Saturday Night and as the books editor for The Georgia Straight.