UPDATED 1/10/2024: The Poet Laureate submission deadline has been extended to Monday, January 22, 2024.

HoCoPoLitSo is excited to announce the establishment of the first-ever position of Howard County Poet Laureate, created in partnership with the Howard County Arts Council to elevate poetry in the consciousness of Howard County residents and to join in celebrating the literary arts— now open to eligible applicants residing in Howard County!

The Poet Laureate is an honorary two-year position, in service to the community, formally appointed by the County Executive based on a recommendation made by an artistic and community panel selection process coordinated by HoCoPoLitSo.

During their term, the Poet Laureate acts as an advocate for poetry, literature, and the arts and contributes to Howard County’s poetic and literary legacy through public readings and participation in civic events. The next—and first!—Poet Laureate will serve from April 2024 through March 2026 and will receive a stipend of $5,000 per year of service, and up to $500 per year for reimbursable expenses related to the Poet Laureate’s activities.

The Howard County Poet Laureate Program is a partnership between Howard County Poetry & Literature Society with the Office of County Executive Calvin Ball and the Howard County Arts Council. To learn more about the program please visit the HCAC program landing page here or review the program guidelines available therein.

Eligible candidates may apply now by clicking HERE! Deadline for submissions is January 9, 2024. UPDATED: deadline for submissions has been extended to Monday, January 22, 2024.