The Town of Chapel Hill is accepting applications for its next poet laureate, a position which it says “inspires creativity and celebrates community through poetry, public programs, and shared experiences.” The town’s current poet laureate, Cortland Gilliam, will have his term expire at the end of the year.

The town’s poet laureate will serve a two-year appointment from January 2025 through December 2026 and will receive $6,000, disbursed in multiple payments throughout the tenure. Responsibilities include working with the town staff to design a timeline of programs, projects and events, such as workshops and regularly scheduled meetings. Performances of original poems at special community occasions are also expected.

The Town of Chapel Hill’s two most recent poet laureates: Cortland Gilliam (left) and CJ Suitt (right). (Image via Town of Chapel Hill)

Applicants are required to be a published poet with active projects in the last five years and have a personal or professional connection to Chapel Hill. Residency in the town is preferred, but not required.

“The Poet Laureate is an ambassador for poetry by fostering connections to the poetry community,” the town said, “and by enhancing the social and civic life of the Chapel Hill community at large.”

The application deadline is Monday, September 9 at 5 p.m. For more information, including how to apply, click here.

 

Featured image via Town of Chapel Hill

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