CHAPEL HILL POET LAUREATE 2027-2028
We’re looking for the next Chapel Hill Poet Laureate! This position inspires creativity and celebrates community through poetry, public programs, and shared poetry experiences.
The Poet Laureate is an ambassador for poetry by fostering connections to the poetry community and by enhancing the social and civic life of the Chapel Hill community at large. Meet our past Poet Laureates.
TERM: Two-year appointment (January 2027 – December 2028)
COMPENSATION: $6,000 disbursed in multiple payments throughout the Poet Laureate’s tenure
FINALIST STIPENDS: $200/finalist for proposal presentation and in-person interview
RESPONSIBILITIES: The Poet Laureate will work with Town staff and stakeholders to jointly design a timeline of deliverables during his/her/their tenure. Programs, projects, and events may include but are not limited to:
- Writing poems for special community occasions.
- Performing at key community moments like festivals, events, and council meetings.
- Creating experiences for poetry to be shared in the community.
- Facilitating workshops or training opportunities.
- Attending regularly scheduled meetings.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
- Poets 18+ with little, some, or substantial work published and active projects in the last 5 years
- A personal or professional connection to Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Residency in Chapel Hill is preferred, but not required
- Submit application materials using the directions below
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5pm on Monday, September 14, 2026
Community Arts & Culture aims to inspire creativity and celebrate community for a better Chapel Hill. We value inclusion, experience, and understanding, and encourage submissions of work to reflect these values.
