Water Street Writers | Susan Ward Trestrail | April 19, 2026
Susan Ward Trestrail is a photographer, poet, and English professor from Sleepy Hollow, Illinois. She possesses an extensive academic background, holding an M.F.A. in creative writing with an emphasis in poetry, as well as an M.A. in English from National University in La Jolla, California. Additionally, Susan earned an M.S.Ed. in Adult and Higher Education and a B.A. in Sociology from Northern Illinois University. She teaches college composition courses at The College of DuPage, where she regularly contributes to their literary journal, The Prairie Light Review.
Published Works
Susan is the author of three published books. Her works include a children’s book titled Tiny Bird, as well as two poetry collections, All Earthly Colors and Gather the Days, both of which feature her own photography alongside her poems.
Artistic Pursuits and Exhibitions
Currently, Susan’s artistic focus is on photography, particularly in the realm of creative portraiture. Her photographic work has been featured in exhibitions such as The Aurora First Friday display and, most recently, at Limestone Coffee and Tea at the Batavia Public Library. She is presently working on a new book, Daisy Chains, which will combine portraits and poetry. Follow her on Facebook @susanwardtrestrailphotography.
Personal Life and Inspirations
Susan grew up in Batavia, Illinois, just two blocks from the scenic Fox River. The natural beauty of Northern Illinois, which enriched her childhood experiences, serves as inspiration for many of her poems. Raised by parents who were both writers and avid readers, she developed a deep appreciation for culture that she shares with her siblings. Susan is especially passionate about poetry, education, and her family. In her spare time, she enjoys photography, reading, traveling, and spending time with her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Water Street Writers is a curated reading series featuring local authors from Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.
The events are always on a Sunday in the months of September, November, February, and April. Doors open at 5pm, the event begins at 5:30pm.
Four readers will perform their short works of prose and poetry. We are open to any genre and all kinds of performance.
The lovely Water Street Studios (160 S Water Street, Batavia, IL, United States, 60510) has generously donated their space to us and as such we encourage everyone to become a member and attend their Second Friday art openings. They’re a good time.
Readers are selected by submission. Send your best work to WaterStreetStudios@rolreadlocal.com.
Produced for Water Street Writers by Kevin Moriarity.