About Us

Mystery Writers of America is the oldest and most prominent organization for writers of crime fiction and other professionals in the field. MWA-NY is a regional chapter that includes Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

MWA presents the prestigious Edgar^® Awards each year to the most deserving works in the mystery field. The organization also monitors legal developments affecting writers and promotes networking and professional development.

In addition, MWA also educates published and aspiring writers regarding their rights and interests and informs writers and readers of matters that may affect crime writing through legislation, publishing industry practices, judicial decisions, or other ways. Our membership includes writers of books, short stories, plays, and screenplays; publishers, editors, agents, librarians, booksellers, and others in allied fields; aspiring writers and others devoted to crime writing.

Membership is open to the public, and you need not reside in the U.S. to join. MWA is a nonprofit organization described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

For information on joining MWA, please see the national organization’s web site.

Board Members 2026