Liz Goulet Dubois Scholarship for Picture Book Creators

The Liz Goulet Dubois Scholarship for Picture Book Creators has been established in memory of Liz Goulet Dubois by her family and friends, and annually supports one picture book creator for an in-person workshop, retreat, or online course of their choice.

Budding authors and illustrators who create for the very young are encouraged to apply. Applicants will be selected for how well they reflect Liz’s sensibilities.

With the passing of Liz Goulet Dubois, a bright light went out in the children’s literature community. Not only was Liz a talented writer and Illustrator, she was also beloved by anyone who had the great fortune to know her.

We can’t tell you how many times we heard people praise Liz behind her back. People referred to her as intelligent, talented, unfailingly kind, and wise. She had incredible depth and was so intuitive about the world and its people; she knew what was important. For all these reasons and more, she was a phenomenal wife, mother, daughter, and friend.

In the weeks following her passing, we heard from several people that “Liz was the first person I spoke with at the conference!” That’s because Liz would seek out the new people, those nervously scanning the room for someone to talk with. She’d saunter over, introduce herself, and ask them about themselves and their work. And she cared about the answer. She always wanted to uplift people. Liz was full of so much joy.

It is with a heavy heart that we came to terms with the fact that Liz will never create for these young readers again, but it heartens us to know that recipients of the scholarship will be assisted in stepping into this incredible world of creating for children. That each of them will launch work that elicits wide eyes and big grins and hearty belly giggles, for every child should know this joy while reading a book.

As you go forth into the world, remember to smile at a stranger. Approach someone who seems lonely. Really listen. And strive for magnificence but not perfection. And take chances creatively — go for it! You have nothing to lose by trying. This is how we can best honor Liz and her legacy.