Dr. Paul Brooke, Endowed Chair and Professor of English, has been named the next Poet Laureate of Iowa. His appointment marks a significant recognition of his contributions to literature and education across the state. Brooke’s term will run from May 1, 2026, through May 1, 2028.
The position of Poet Laureate is appointed by the governor and serves as a cultural ambassadorship dedicated to promoting poetry and the literary arts. In this role, Brooke will work to engage communities throughout Iowa, fostering appreciation for poetry among diverse audiences.
During his tenure, Brooke plans to travel extensively across the state, offering readings and presentations at schools, photography clubs, and conservation centers. His outreach reflects a commitment to making poetry accessible and relevant beyond traditional academic settings.
One of Brooke’s key initiatives includes creating collaborative opportunities between poets and visual artists. He intends to pair writers with photographers and other artists to produce original work.