Ellen Waterston will begin her second term as the 11th Oregon Poet Laureate in August 2026.
The Oregon Poet Laureate fosters the art of poetry, encourages literacy and learning, addresses central issues relating to humanities and heritage, and reflects on public life in Oregon.
Gov. Tina Kotek appointed High Desert author Ellen Waterston to a second two-year term as Poet Laureate in April 2026 – National Poetry Month.
Information about the Poet Laureate program, how to request an appearance, and how the poet laureate is selected can be found on this website. Please also check out our Facebook page.
As Oregon Poet Laureate, Ellen Waterston makes public appearances at various events around the state. Check the appearances page for more information.
This project is supported in part by a grant from the Oregon Cultural Trust, investing in Oregon’s arts, humanities and heritage. Oregon Humanities administers the program, and can answer questions at oregonpoetlaureate@oregonhumanities.org.
