15 June

Thomas Nelson longtime editor Debbie Wickwire announces retirement

Dawn Hollomon promoted to acquisitions editor for W Publishing Group

(Nashville, Tenn.) June 15, 2021— Damon Reiss, vice president and publisher of W Publishing Group, an imprint of Thomas Nelson, announced today the impending retirement of 32-year industry veteran Debbie Wickwire, senior acquisitions editor. Dawn Hollomon, senior editor, will move into the acquisitions role.

Wickwire joined Word Publishing in 1989, which was acquired by Thomas Nelson in 1992. Through her long tenure she has worked as a support to the sales team, managed author and brand relationships, and acquired hundreds of book projects. She has been instrumental in developing the publishing phenomenon Heaven Is for Real as well as many other New York Times and CBA bestselling authors such as Anne Graham Lotz, Levi Lusko, Jennie Allen, Kathie Lee Gifford, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and Chip and Joanna Gaines. Her retirement will begin in September.

“I never dreamed God would allow me the honor of working with so many brilliant people and teams through my assignment to discover exceptional authors and publish their books,” says Wickwire. “Though the titles, covers, and even times may have changed, I’m so grateful that the messages of God’s truth, love, and grace have remained the same. It has been an incredibly rewarding career—especially knowing how one book can change someone’s life for eternity!”

“It has been a privilege to work with Debbie,” says Reiss. “Equal parts book magician, counselor, and prayer warrior, she has set the standard of excellence W Publishing is known for and will continue to be after her retirement. She will always be an intricate part of our team, and we celebrate this new season with her.”

Hollomon joined Thomas Nelson in 2014 after serving as lead editor for the magazine HomeLife. After specializing in four-color and high-design projects in the company’s gift book division, Hollomon joined the W Publishing Group imprint in 2019, where she has led the editorial efforts for Dr. David Jeremiah, Kathie Lee Gifford, Hosanna Wong, and Kari Kampakis, among others.

“I am excited to see Dawn thrive in this new role and continue to serve our authors with exceptional care,” says Stephanie Newton, associate publisher of W Publishing Group. “While working with Dawn I’ve constantly been impressed by her dedication to our partners and her focus on bringing impactful books to the lives of believers around the globe. Her voice on our team has been a difference maker and sets W apart in the market.”

Hollomon will move into the acquisitions role immediately, reporting to Damon Reiss and collaborating with Wickwire over the next few months to execute a smooth transition.

Contact:    Allison Carter
Publicity Director, W Publishing
615-902-2143
[email protected]