A panel discussion with UBC Press editors
DATE: Wednesday, November 4, 2026
TIME: 12:00pm – 2:00pm
LOCATION: Cherry Room, University Centre, 6331 Crescent Rd, Vancouver V6T 1Z1
Publishing a book is an important milestone in the careers of scholars in the humanities and social sciences, but how does one go about drafting a proposal, pitching to an editor, and publishing a scholarly book?
Join acquiring editors from UBC Press to learn about the ins and outs of academic book publishing, from finding the right press, connecting with editors, and the dos and don’ts of writing a book proposal to what you can expect during peer review, production, and marketing. This informative session will also cover revising dissertations, contracts, funding considerations, and writing for general readers. The editors will leave time for discussion and answering your questions about book publishing.
Meet the Editors
Since starting at UBC Press in 1996, Randy Schmidt, assistant director, acquisitions, has been a driving force within the acquisitions department. During that time, he has helped guide hundreds of books from the proposal stage though peer review and into production. Along the way, he coordinated the launch of several well-respected series. Randy’s editorial approach is simple: find good manuscripts, shepherd them to publication in a timely manner, and make authors happy.
Senior editor James MacNevin has a diverse background in book publishing. He began his career in 2001 working for independent trade publishers and later moved into textbook publishing and finally into scholarly publishing—a trajectory that has left him with an appreciation for many varieties of research and writing, and for works that speak to multiple audiences. As an editor, he enjoys collaborating with authors to bring new scholarship to the fore.
Editor Nadine Pedersen brings over ten years’ experience in trade and educational publishing to her role at UBC Press, including as a substantive book editor and managing editor. Nadine acquires books for the UBC Press and Purich Books imprints. Known for her thoughtful and relational approach, Nadine works closely with authors from the idea stage through to production.
Editor Shalini Nanayakkara (she/her) brings a sales perspective to editorial work, having started in the UBC Press marketing department in 2022. She enjoys supporting scholarship that bring fresh perspectives. Being a queer South Asian woman with ADHD and a chronic illness, she bears a personal connection to her subject areas and offers safe space and understanding to help authors publish their best scholarship.