Oregon Poet Laureate

Ellen Waterston began her term as the eleventh Oregon Poet Laureate in August 2024.

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.

Information about the Poet Laureate programhow 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.

Oregon Poet Laureate swirl graphic