Stokes Center for Creative Writing â The Stokes Center enhances the English departmentâs offerings in creative writing by sponsoring readings, lectures, forums, community projects, and other events that are free and open to the public. It also supports students through its undergraduate and graduate awards in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. The Stokes Center is committed to fostering a vibrant writersâ community in Southern Alabama, one that not only showcases both local and national talent, but also provides a meeting place for writers from around the world.