Virginia's Newest Poet Laureate Is Luisa A. Igloria

We're excited to hear that the state of Virginia has named its next poet laureate and she is Filipina American poet Luisa A. Igloria, professor of English at Old Dominion University and the author of nearly 20 collections of poetry! Announcing the accolade, Old Dominion University also notes that it is the only school in Virginia to have two faculty members designated as poet laureates in the past decade. (Igloria follows Henry Hart, who held the position from 2018 to 2020.) More:

Igloria, who has written nearly 20 collections of poetry, described it as a "unique position for service and engagement through poetry. I hope to have many conversations with others, and to find meaningful ways to support and promote the voices of Virginia poets in particular and the work of poets and poetry in general as an important part of living in these times."

She described herself as "overwhelmed" and "grateful" for the appointment. "It's such an honor to join the ranks of many esteemed Virginia poets laureate," Igloria said, noting that she would be the fourth person of color to hold the title.

"My colleagues and I are thrilled that Dr. Igloria was selected to serve as Virginia's next poet laureate," said Kent Sandstrom, dean of the College of Arts and Letters. "She richly deserves this distinguished honor. Dr. Igloria is an internationally renowned poet and award-winning professor whose work inspires her students and colleagues. She is also a remarkably thoughtful, bright and engaging teacher and scholar."

Continue reading via Old Dominion University's news page.