Award-winning author of horror and scifi visits Living Writers Series

Debbie Urbanski – author of “After World” and “Portalmania” – will speak at SUNY Oswego's Living Writers Series

November 9, 2026 | 2 minutes to read

Filed under: English and Creative Writing Department | College of Liberal Arts, Sciences and Engineering

What can horror and science fiction tell about the future humanity is creating? Debbie Urbanski – award-winning author of “After World” and “Portalmania” – will consider that question and more when she joins SUNY Oswego's Living Writers Series at 3 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 16, in the Marano Campus Center auditorium, room 132.

Urbanski’s appearance is part of this year’s Living Writers Series theme of A/I, which explores the tension between Artistic Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence.

“I wish tech people and creative people would talk with each other more about AI,” said Urbanski. “I don’t mean a shouting match — I mean an actual discussion. I like to imagine these conversations might lead to systems of ethical training or collaboration.

“I also wish public discussion around AI would not hyperfocus on generative AI but also include uses of AI that are helping us solve existing problems,” Urbanski continues. “To put this another way: is it possible to use generative AI to solve existing and urgent problems — or is it merely another form of entertainment?”

Urbanski is the final Living Writers Series guest of the season. Both of her books have been named as best in their field.

Her novel “After World” was named a best book of the year by the San Francisco Chronicle, Engadget, Strange Horizons, Booklist and the Los Angeles Times. Her short story collection “Portalmania” was named a best horror book of the year by the New York Public Library.

"Urbanski is providing the final thoughts on our theme of A/I," said Sari Fordham, the current professor of Living Writers Series. "It feels fitting to end with such a compelling genre and such a dynamic writer."

The event is free and open to the public. After the Q&A, Urbanski will sign books.

During Living Writers Series events, the community may park for free in lots E-10 and E-17 beyond Marano Campus Center (no pass required). Visit oswego.edu/parking for parking and campus maps.

For assistance in attending an event, contact Accessibility Resources at 315.312.3358 or [email protected].

This Living Writers Series event is presented by ARTSwego and the Department of English and Creative Writing.

– Submitted by the Living Writers Series