INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF TORCH CLUBS
The Torch Magazine Staff
EDITOR
Member At Large |
Michael Washburn is a Brooklyn-based writer, journalist, and acclaimed author known for his versatile engagement with the written word. He has authored five short story collections, including The Uprooted and Other Stories (2018), When We're Grownups (2019), and Stranger, Stranger (2020). A prolific fiction writer, Michael's work has appeared in numerous national and international literary magazines. Notable accolades include winning Causeway Lit's 2018 fiction contest for his short story "Confessions of a Spook" and having his tale "In the Flyover State" recognized as a Distinguished Mystery Story of 2014 by Best American Mystery Stories.
Michael is also the host of the weekly podcast Reading the Globe on Sea of Reeds Media, where he explores literature and global perspectives. A seasoned editor and journalist, his byline appears in leading newspapers and magazines across the United States. He has conducted hundreds of in-depth interviews with industry leaders, including CEOs and partners, covering topics such as banking and finance, capital markets, restructuring, project finance, securitization, and private funds markets across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and offshore jurisdictions. Known for his ability to distill complex subjects into clear and accessible formats, Michael's expertise spans writing, editing, copyediting, proofreading, research, and interviewing. He has cultivated strong relationships with authors, editors, and clients, demonstrating his dedication to excellence in communication. Feel free to reach out to Michael with any questions or guidance regarding your interest in submitting your work to The Torch. |
MANAGING EDITOR
Winston-Salem, NC |
Joel Stegall's academic journey began with a flourish as a choral director and chair of the Department of Music at Mars Hill University (NC). His career crescendo was his role as dean of music at both Ithaca College (NY) and the University of Florida. In 1990, Joel's leadership took center stage when he became Vice-President for Academic Affairs at Shenandoah University (VA) and joined the Torch club of Winchester. Upon retiring in 2002, he made a harmonious transition to Winston-Salem, NC, where he began a career encore as an academic consultant and continued his Torch involvement.
Joel's dynamic leadership was recognized with the prestigious Silver Torch Award from both the Winchester and Winston-Salem Torch clubs, which he has served as vice-president and president. Four of his six Torch papers have been published in The Torch Magazine. Joel's academic credentials are equally impressive, earning a bachelor’s degree from Wake Forest University, a master’s from the University of North Texas, and a PhD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In recognition of his work with international academic exchange, he has honorary degrees from two Russian Universities. He has been listed in Who's Who in America, Who's Who in the South and Southwest, Who's Who in the East, and eight other such publications. |