By Julissa Treviño/south news editor

Students and educators can receive a 50 percent discount to this year’s DFW Writers Conference.

The conference is reaching out to students and educators who are considering becoming professional writers, Stephen Manning, president of the DFW Writers’ Workshop and sponsor of the conference, said.

“The conference is designed for anyone who’s interested in learning more about the craft and business of writing,” he said.

More than 30 writers, authors and agents will participate in presentations and sessions covering the art of writing mysteries, romances, fiction, poetry and other genres.

Among these writers is keynote speaker Candace Havens, author of Joss Whedon: The Genius Behind Buffy, who has interviewed celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Nicholas Cage and Susan Sarandon.

Other speakers include award-winning fantasy writer, A. Lee Martinez; mystery author William Manchee; award-winning young adult writer Rosemary Clement-Moore; and romance novelist Shanna Swendson.

“This is a great opportunity for Texas writers to meet literary agents in person and pitch their work,” Manning said.

The conference will be at the Grapevine Convention Center Feb. 23-24.

Originally $150, the discount price is $75. However, students must be at least 18 years old and attend school full time. Only a limited number of spaces is still available.

The registration form, a complete list of speakers and more information can be found at the conference Web site, www.dfwwritersconference.org.