The Poet Laureate of York

WHAT IS A POET LAUREATE? 

Traditionally, the Poet Laureate is an honorary title given to a person who has demonstrated excellence in the literary arts. Playwright and Poet Ben Jonson was the first poet laureate, appointed in 1616 by King James I of England.

Mayor Sandie Walker continues this tradition of recognizing York’s considerable literary talent through the position of the Poet Laureate of York. Initiated in 2002 by former Mayor John Brenner, the Poet Laureate will demonstrate excellence in the literary arts and serve as an educator and ambassador of the written word in our city.

WHAT WILL THE POET LAUREATE OF YORK DO?

The Poet Laureate will work with cultural, educational and other organizations to accomplish the following goals:

• Encourage our citizens to express their literary creativity;
• Promote and showcase the original work of York’s citizens;
• Help to create a community environment in which literary talent can thrive and be encouraged; and
• Create works of the written word that commemorate special events in the life of the city.

A list of suggested duties is attached to the application form.

DURATION OF SERVICE

The Poet Laureate of York shall serve for two years in that capacity. In the case that the laureate cannot serve for that duration of time because of extended illness, relocation, job situation, or inability to perform, the selection committee will solicit applications once again from the public. Poet Laureates may reapply for this position at the end of their term or at any point in the future.

The York County Community Foundation has agreed to partner with the Cultural Alliance of York County to offer a $1,000 honorarium per year for the two year term of your new Poet Laureate.

SELECTION PROCESS

Any permanent resident of York City or York County is eligible to apply for the position of The Poet Laureate of York. A selection committee composed of representatives from various cultural, educational and business-related organizations as appointed by the Mayor of York will review applications. Members of the selection committee will interview the top candidates and make a recommendation to Mayor Sandie Walker.

Qualifications for the position include (1) demonstrated achievement in a field or fields of the literary arts; (2) a willingness and ability to educate young people and laypeople in the mechanics and nuances of the literary arts; (3) the intent to live in the City of York or York County for the duration of the appointment; and (4) a devotion to the City of York as a thriving cultural and social destination for our own citizens and for others.

Creative York supports the Poet Laureate initiative by administering the application and selection process and assisting with communications. Once appointed, however, the Poet Laureate serves at the pleasure of the Mayor and works directly with the Mayor’s Office throughout the term. The role functions as a civic ambassador for the City of York, collaborating with the Mayor to reflect the priorities, history, and cultural vitality of the community.

IMPORTANT

Please attach (4) writing samples of work written within the last five years. Submissions should be no longer than 34 lines each (excerpts are fine) in a 12 point size font. If possible, include a sample having to do with a civic theme or a York-related theme. Be sure the author’s name is on each attachment.

Applicants are to include an updated resume or CV with references

DEADLINE:

• Applications must be received at Creative York, no later than 5:00pm on April 30, 2026.
• Late applications will not be considered.

 Interviews of top candidates will be held in May and a public announcement will be made by the Mayor in June.

Download a printable PDF version HERE.