The City of Richmond has opened the application process for its next Poet Laureate, who will serve from 2026 to 2028. This position will be the third in the city’s history, following Roscoe Burnems (2021-2023) and Joanna Lee (2024-2026).
Joanna Lee, the current Poet Laureate, described the role by saying, “A big part of what the Poet Laureate of a place should do is to write to and for that place—to bear witness to the times we are living through, and to be a voice for the people who call that place home.”
Lee and former laureate Burnems will participate on this year’s selection jury alongside city officials, local poets, and community partners. The panel will review applications and provide recommendations to Mayor Danny Avula, who will make the final selection.
Mayor Avula said, “The City’s next laureate will help us build a stronger, more connected Richmond by using their art to bring people together. We’re looking for somebody who does the art form well, who loves this city, and who helps it tell its stories and create paths to healing. Richmond has been so lucky in our first two laureates, and I can’t wait to see the immense talent of this next group of applicants.”
The selected Poet Laureate will receive an annual stipend of $5,000 as well as $2,000 in initial funds for developing a community-based poetry project. Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old and currently live, work or study within Richmond. They should also have a record of poetic achievement and experience fostering literary communities.
Applications and nominations are being accepted until January 12, 2026. Further details about requirements and how to apply can be found at go.rva.gov/poet-laureate.