Patricia Spear Jones's book, The Weather that Kills, grew out of her MFA thesis. Several of the poems, most notably "The Usual Suspect", "Joss Sticks", and "The Birth of the Rhythm and Blues" were developed under the guidance of Lynda Hull, Mark Doty and David Rivard. Rivard's sharp eye really helped her arrange the collection. The book was well-received, critically acclaimed and is still in print. Several of the poems in the book have been anthologized and "The Perfect Lipstick" is often taught.
"The VCFA MFA in Visual Art Program provided me with an experience beyond a mere education in visual culture and artistic practice. It gave me a new perspective on what art and artists were and could be that will carry me through the rest of my life. It has been and will continue to be an experience that informs my teaching, and all other interactions with students and colleagues."