County Opens Search for Next Poet Laureate

Applications Accepted Aug. 15 through September 30

New City, NY – County Executive Ed Day and the Arts Council of Rockland (ACOR) are pleased to announce the opening of applications for Rockland County’s next Poet Laureate, as the County’s current Poet Laureate Juan Pablo Mobili prepares to complete his term of service at the end of this year.

“On behalf of the people of Rockland County, I want to thank Juan for his dedicated service and the passion he has brought to his role as Poet Laureate,” said County Executive Ed Day. “As we begin the search for our next Poet Laureate, I encourage the talented writers throughout our community to consider applying for this unique opportunity to share their voice, inspire others, and leave their own mark on Rockland County.”

“Serving as Rockland County Poet Laureate has been an incredible honor and a deeply meaningful experience,” said Poet Laureate Juan Pablo Mobili. “Poetry has a unique ability to bring people together, give voice to our experiences, and help us see our community through a different lens. I am grateful for the opportunity I’ve had and look forward to seeing the next Poet Laureate build upon this work and bring their own voice and vision to the role.”

The Rockland County Poet Laureate Program, a collaboration between the County of Rockland and the Arts Council of Rockland, promotes the literary arts and connects writers with the community. The Poet Laureate serves as a poetry ambassador, engaging audiences through public appearances, educational programs, and more.

“ACOR is thrilled to once again be partnering with County Executive Ed Day to recognize poetry's vital role in our community’s cultural traditions and civic life,” said Dorothy Atzl, ACOR Executive Director.

How to Apply: Applications for the 2027 Rockland County Poet Laureate are open August 15th though September 30th. Applications must be submitted through the Arts Council of Rockland’s website. The laureate will be appointed to serve a one-year term, with the option to renew for a second year. The term will run from January 1, 2027, to December 31, 2027, and if renewed, will continue through December 31, 2028.

Applicants must be at least 25 years old and have published poetry or a history of public poetry performances. Full eligibility requirements are available on the Arts Council’s website. An ACOR-facilitated Advisory Committee will review applications and recommend a candidate to the County Executive, who will make the final appointment, subject to confirmation by the County Legislature.

Interested applicants with questions can contact Dorothy Atzl of ACOR at dorothy@artscouncilofrockland.org

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