City of Ellensburg Announces Open Nomination Period for Next Poet Laureate

The City of Ellensburg and the Ellensburg Arts Commission will accept nominations for the Poet Laureate position starting July 15, 2025. This role, which serves a two-year term beginning January 1, 2026, aims to enhance community engagement through poetry. The Poet Laureate will conduct public readings, workshops, and presentations to promote literary arts. Marie Marchand, the inaugural Poet Laureate, reflected on her experience, stating, "Poet Laureate is a unique civic role that presents an opportunity to build community around the written and spoken word. " Candidates must submit application packets by September 15, 2025.

The program is part of the EAC’s broader initiative to support artists and promote economic growth in the creative sector. The EAC collaborates with various organizations to enrich the community’s cultural landscape. More information is available at www. ellensburgwa. gov/poetlaureate and at City Hall.