NEW CITY, N.Y. — County Executive Ed Day and the Arts Council of Rockland (ACOR) are excited to announce a call for applications for the new Rockland County Poet Laureate position for the 2025-26 term. The Rockland County Poet Laureate Program is a collaboration between the Arts Council of Rockland and the County of Rockland.
The chosen Poet Laureate will serve as an ambassador for the literary arts, engaging audiences throughout Rockland County and beyond. By connecting writers and the public, the Poet Laureate will expand the reach of Rockland County’s programs and educational activities. Moreover, the Poet Laureate will enhance public awareness of poetry, art, and local events while fostering collaborations across numerous agencies and organizations.
“The Rockland County Poet Laureate will have the power to connect communities through public readings and civic events,” said County Executive Ed Day. “They will also promote and celebrate the arts, culture, and literature that make Rockland County a wonderful place to live.”
Rockland County has an active literary scene comprised of talented poets, writers, and storytellers who elevate and promote the literary arts. “ACOR is thrilled to be partnering with County Executive Ed Day to recognize poetry’s vital role in our community’s cultural traditions and civic life,” said Dorothy Atzl, ACOR Executive Director.
How to Apply: Applications for the 2025-26 Rockland County Poet Laureate open on August 15, 2024, and close on September 30, 2024. Applications must be submitted through the Arts Council of Rockland’s website. The laureate will be appointed to serve a one-year term, with the option to renew for a second year. The term will run from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025, and if renewed, will continue through December 31, 2026.
Applicants must be at least 25 years old and have a body of work published in journals, chapbooks, or full-length collections, or have a history of public poetry performances. Full eligibility requirements are available on the Arts Council’s website.
An Advisory Committee facilitated by ACOR and comprised of professional poets, arts administrators, educators, and County representatives will evaluate submissions and recommend a Poet Laureate to the County Executive. The County Executive will then make the final decision regarding the appointment of the Poet Laureate, who is then confirmed by the County Legislature.
For more information and to apply, please visit the Arts Council of Rockland’s website: www.artscouncilofrockland.org/rockland-county-poet-laureate.
You can also contact Dorothy Atzl at dorothy@artscouncilofrockland.org.