Thoughts from the Dean's Desk

Every July, I find myself eagerly packing my bags for Atlanta, GA, to attend one of the most soul-nourishing events of my year Mystic South, a vibrant pagan conference that has become a cherished tradition in my life. 

My partner and I began attending in the very first year of 2017. That first event came with its fair share of challenges, Atlanta was dealing with a major water issue, which caused problems at the hotel, but even amidst the chaos, something magical happened. The hotel staff and conference organizers handled everything with such grace and care, and I was completely amazed. That year, Mystic South captured my heart and formed bonds in adversity with the other attendees, and I’ve returned every year since. 

Each year, the conference evolves. Sometimes there’s a theme, sometimes not, but there’s always a rich tapestry of rituals, workshops, academic presentations, concerts, shopping, and pure joy. It’s a place where learning and laughter go hand in hand, and where I always feel both inspired and at home. 

Since 2018, WSTS has had a table at the conference, and in 2022, I began presenting workshops myself. (2021 was a pause for all of us due to COVID.) As a presenter, I’ve always felt supported and valued Mystic South is incredibly well-organized and welcoming to speakers. Heather Greene and Marla Roberson do an amazing job at leading the volunteers who put on this conference.  Their team obviously works hard, because it shows in how well the conference runs. 

This year felt especially meaningful. WSTS had a strong presence with a table in the common area and five of our graduate students and faculty presenting workshops. We were thrilled to see so many of our undergraduate students attending as well, and our annual Meet and Greet was the biggest it’s ever been. We ran out of cards and brochures, which was a great problem to have! 

2025 WSTS Presenters: 

• N’Mier Laveau, WSTS Graduate Student – “Past Life Exploration 101” 
• Petras Maygar, WSTS Graduate Student – “Deliciously Divine: An Introduction to Kitchen Witchery” 
• Brenna Grace, WSTS Dean of Ministry and Faculty – “The Eleusinian Mysteries” 
• Trisha Parker, WSTS Faculty and Enrollment Officer – “Gardening with the Moon” 
• Kara D. Williams, WSTS Seminary Dean and Faculty – “13 Wiccan Moons – Creating Ritual” 
• Belladonna Laveau, Arch Priestess of the ATC and WSTS Faculty – spoke on the COG Panel: “Collective Work and Resistance for a Vibrant Pagan Future” 
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Being surrounded by so many of our students and faculty made this year feel extra special. But even beyond that, there’s the joy of reconnecting with old friends and familiar faces, people I only get to see once a year, but who feel like family. 

Some personal highlights for me this year included: 

• The Friday night concert with Lynda Millard and Ginger Doss—absolutely touched my soul! 
• A deeply enlightening North Asian Shamanism workshop with David Shi. 
• The Covenant of the Goddess (COG) Panel, where I listened to powerful discussions from leaders in our community about navigating these challenging times. 
• A workshop on manifestation with Pamela Chen, which gave me new ways to look at the tools I already use and to deepen my own practice. 

And of course, I always treasure the chance to connect with fellow authors. This year, I had a lovely conversation with Susan Walter while we were both signing books at The Sojourner Whole Earth Provisions' Author Table. Last year, I met Daniela Simina in the same spot. These moments of connection and shared passion are what make Mystic South so magical. Thank you to Heron Michelle for providing the space for those connections to take place!

This conference fills my cup every single time. If you’ve never been, I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or just beginning your journey, Mystic South offers something special, a space to learn, grow, connect, and celebrate the beauty of our diverse pagan paths.