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Wisconsin Poet Laureate

CURRENT POET LAUREATE

Brenda Cárdenas was born and raised in Milwaukee. She taught Creative Writing and U. S. Latin o/x Literatures at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee.

READ HER POETRY ➔

Wisconsin’s ambassador for poetry, creativity, and artistic expression.

The Wisconsin Poet Laureate is the state's leading voice for poetry across the state.

Wisconsin Humanities is proud to have been a supporting member of the Wisconsin Poetry Commission since its inception in 2000. The Wisconsin Poet Laureate has a crucial role during their two-year term, traveling the state to share a love of language and to encourage creative expression among adults and kids alike.

The Wisconsin Poet Laureate Commission is comprised of volunteers and selects a new Laureate every two years, publicizes the position, administers the finances, and helps connect the Poet Laureate with the people of Wisconsin. Jodi Vander Molen represents Wisconsin Humanities on the Poet Laureate Commission.

Past Poet Laureates

Nicholas Gulig – 2023-2024

Dasha Kelly Hamilton – 2021-2022

Margaret Rozga – 2019-2020

Karla Huston – 2017-2018

Kimberly Blaeser – 2015-2016

Max Garland – 2013-2014

Bruce Dethlefsen – 2011-2012

Marilyn L. Taylor – 2008-2010

Denise Sweet – 2004-2008

Ellen Kort – 2000-2004

This program was created by Governor Tommy Thompson in 2000. Wisconsin Humanities is proud to have been a supporting member of the Wisconsin Poetry Commission since its inception in 2000. The Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts and Letters stewards the program, which is supported by individual donations and by financial support from member organizations.

Other Programs

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Community Powered

New ways for Wisconsin communities to tell their stories and take concrete steps toward making their hometowns even better places to live

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Human Powered

A podcast produced by Wisconsin Humanities that spotlights communities where imagination and relationships have changed the landscape.

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Love Wisconsin

A digital storytelling project celebrating the humanity in each of our stories.

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Stand Up To Hate

A free resource and guide to use stories and history to start community conversations.

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Wisconsin Life

Radio shorts celebrating Wisconsin through the diverse perspectives of its people.

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Odyssey Beyond Bars

Storytelling workshops in Wisconsin correctional facilities.

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