RENO — As the Nevada Writers Hall of Fame celebrates its 25th year, William A. Douglass, world-renowned scholar of Basque studies and founder of the Center for Basque Studies at the University of Nevada, Reno, will be inducted at the annual Nevada Writers Hall of Fame Awards with a ceremony from 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 8 at the university’s Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center. Elizabeth Raymond, a cultural historian and professor at the university who has published a number of interdisciplinary works, and Claire Vaye Watkins, an alumnus who recently lit up the literary community with her book, “Battleborn,” will receive this year’s Silver Pen Awards. 

William A. (Bill) Douglass is one of the foremost scholars of Basque studies in the world, but his scholarship is driven in large part for his passion to write. He points to writing as key to his success and the satisfaction his career has given him. 

The Silver Pen Award is the other award presented annually as part of the Nevada Writers Hall of Fame program produced by the Friends of the University of Nevada, Reno Library. While the Hall of Fame Award recognizes established writers with longevity, the Silver Pen Award recognizes emerging and mid-career writers of promise. This year, Silver Pens will be presented to Elizabeth Raymond and Claire Vaye Watkins. 

At this year’s event, a 60-page commemorative book featuring photos and biographies of the Nevada Writers Hall of Fame inductees will also be available. The reception and silent auction will begin at 6 p.m., with the program beginning at 7 p.m. The $40 ticket includes beverages and hors d’oeuvres and supports the services of the university libraries. Complimentary parking for the event is available in the metered lot on the west side of the Knowledge Center, adjacent to the Brian J. Whalen Parking Complex. For more information or reservations, call Julie Gillen in University Events at 682-6014.