“Working with Sara Wigal to publish with Betty Fay Books was the best decision I made for my novel. This small and dedicated team not only knows this industry but also knows how to make authors feel empowered. Their kindness, professionalism, and expertise is just what every author needs. I couldn't have become a published author without Betty Fay Books!”

—Randi Smith, debut young adult author, ADA HOLLOWAY’S HAD ENOUGH (2026)

“Sara Wigal is like the Mayor of Literary Nashville. She's my first call when we need referrals for interns, when someone needs work in the publishing scene, or I'm trying to get connected to this specific person, do you happen to know anyone who knows them— oh wait, she's already dropped their contact in my inbox. I've personally hired two of her grads, and they are sharp, curious, creative thinkers, widely-read and adaptive, and I know those skills were nurtured in her program. It's a joy to attend her class, it's a joy to be part of the WriterFest community, and it's a joy to know Sara Wigal.”

—Rachel S, Marketing Director, HarperCollins Christian Publishing

“I want to thank you for your investment in our daughter. You made the difference in her decision to attend Belmont and have directly impacted the trajectory of her career. Her dad and I are so incredibly grateful for you. As parents we have seen the power of Belmont and its love for the students.”

—Parent of 2026 Belmont University publishing graduate

“Sara is a thoughtful, experienced and very conscientious coworker who you can always rely on to do her best. She is a true asset for any team and a quick learner who is up for any challenge. She is passionate about both books and marketing and committed to learning as much as she can and always puts her best foot forward. I don't know what I'd do without her!”

— Emily Miles Terry, New York Times Bestselling author and Founder of Open Book Publicity (previous employer 2010-2018)

“The students I've met in Sara Wigal's publishing program are exceptional. Under Sara's careful guidance, they learn both the big picture of the book business and the granular details that help young professionals stand out early in their careers. I had never hosted an intern before working with one of Sara's students—and the experience was so positive that I found myself wondering why I'd waited so long. Sara supports genuine intellectual curiosity with rigorous classroom standards, and the result is a generation of young professionals who are truly ready to contribute from day one. Her network of industry connections gives these students something rare: ongoing mentorship and real-life opportunities that set them up for lasting publishing careers.”

— Karen Anderson, Associate Publisher and Strategic Book Coach, Wall Street Journal & USA Today Bestselling Author

“Over the past several years, I've had the opportunity to work with multiple interns who studied under Sara Wigal, and I've been consistently impressed by the preparation they bring to the experience. They arrive curious, eager to learn, and excited about the publishing industry, with a solid foundation that allows them to contribute meaningfully from the start. Just as notably, they speak highly of Sara's mentorship and the support she provides as they prepare for professional careers in publishing.”

— Tim Cobb, Senior Production Manager, Ministry Resources, Abingdon Press | The United Methodist Publishing House

During my time at Belmont University, Sara Wigal provided the foundational industry knowledge and mentorship that launched my career in publishing. She has a remarkable gift for cultivating talent; she mentored not only me but also colleagues who are vital to our publishing process. Sara is dedicated to developing the next generation of industry professionals—and she does it exceptionally well.”

—Kayleigh Cook, Director of Production, Ballast Books and Blue Balloon Books

“Sara Wigal is a dedicated educator and advocate for aspiring publishing professionals. She consistently connects students with industry opportunities and helps them develop the skills and professionalism needed to succeed. At Sourcebooks, we've hired one of her students and have been impressed by how well-prepared they were to contribute from day one. Her commitment to supporting students and strengthening connections between academia and the publishing industry is invaluable.”

— Gigi Curran, Associate Director, Talent Acquisition, Sourcebooks

“From knowing her as Professor Wigal to now “Sara,” I would not be in the position I am today without Sara’s continuous support, mentorship, and expert knowledge. The confidence and skill I built in the classroom under her guidance has led me to work my dream job, which was also made possible by her passion to connect students with industry professionals. She is by all accounts, the best of the best. "

—Madi Hall, Publicist, Spellbound Public Relations 

“Sara Wigal’s graduates make incredible employees because they leave her program with more than just knowledge, they leave with confidence, professionalism, strong communication skills, and the ability to think critically and adapt. They understand how to work with others, take initiative, solve problems, and bring a genuine commitment to doing their best work. My first hire, a graduate from Sara's program, dove into the book PR world without fear and was ready to tackle anything. I'm so grateful for the publishing tools Sara is equipping her students with!”

—Hannah Larew, Spellbound Public Relations