Deadline: May 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM
Applications open April 20, 2026 for Salt Lake City’s inaugural Poet Laureate
The Salt Lake City Poet Laureate program recognizes a local poet to serve as the City’s official ambassador for poetry, a vital literary art form.
The Poet Laureate is a working artist and cultural leader who engages communities through public programming, civic participation, and a signature project. Through this work, the Poet Laureate helps connect residents, reflect shared experiences, and expand access to poetry across Salt Lake City.
Role and Responsibilities
The Poet Laureate will:
- Write: Create one original civic poem annually for City-related or community occasions
- Appear: Participate in 2–4 City events each year
- Present: Lead 7 public readings annually, with a goal of reaching all seven City Council districts
- Create: Develop one signature community project over the course of the three-year term
- Represent :Serve as a cultural ambassador in media appearances and civic functions
The signature project may take the form of a single initiative or a series of related programs. It should include a clear public-facing component and connect poetry with community life. Final scope and direction will be developed in collaboration with program staff.
Term, Compensation, and Support
Term of Service: July 2026 – July 2029
Honorarium: $5,000 per year
The Poet Laureate will also receive administrative and project support to develop and implement public programming and a signature project.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a full-time resident of Salt Lake City and maintain residency throughout the term
- Demonstrate a strong record of artistic practice in poetry
- Have at least one published poetry collection (book or chapbook)
- Demonstrate experience in community engagement
- Show ability to present work to varied audiences
- Propose a signature project connecting poetry with community life
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online through Submittable.
The application includes:
- Eligibility confirmation
- Contact information
- Résumé or CV (max. 2 pages)
- Written statements
- Work samples (poetry and reading samples)
- Two professional references
Work Sample Requirements:
- Up to 5 original poems (10 pages max total)
- 1–3 audio or video recordings (3 minutes max each)
- At least one submission must be a video recording
Application Review
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Artistic Merit
- Community Engagement
- Vision for the Role
- Public Engagement & Communication
- Demonstrated ability in public speaking and audience engagement
Select finalists may be invited for an interview as part of the selection process.
Key Dates
- Applications Open: Monday, April 20, 2026
- Application Deadline: Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM
- Application Review Period: Late May – Early July 2026
- Candidate Notification: Early July 2026
- Public Announcement: Mid July 2026
- Term of Service: July 2026 – July 2029
Accessibility
Applications are welcome from poets of all backgrounds. If you require accommodations, please make a request at least 14 business days before the application deadline.
FAQ
Where do I apply?
Applications are submitted through Submittable.
Do I need to live in Salt Lake City?
Yes. Applicants must be full-time residents and maintain residency throughout the term.
Do I need to have a published book?
Yes. At least one published poetry collection is required.
Is this a paid position?
Yes. The Poet Laureate receives a $5,000 annual honorarium.
Contact
Salt Lake City Arts Council
Todd Oberndorfer
(801) 535-6512
