Applications Now Open for Rochester Poet Laureate

Applications Open for Rochester Poet Laureate

Rochester, MN — The Poet Laureate Rochester Project is seeking applications from accomplished local poets interested in serving as Rochester’s next Poet Laureate. Applications are due Thursday, December 31, 2026.

Established in 2015 by Southeastern Minnesota Poets, the project celebrates poetry and promotes appreciation for the literary arts in the city. The project invites Rochester’s mayor to appoint a poet laureate who will serve as an advocate for poetry through local events. The poet laureate also acts as an ambassador for the city of Rochester, promoting its role as a vibrant center of Minnesota’s literary landscape.

During their term, the selected poet laureate will participate in an inaugural reading and will initiate or help organize at least two additional poetry events each year. Activities may include public readings, workshops, educational programs, and collaborations with local organizations. The position is honorary and does not include compensation from the city. The term lasts two years, but may be extended for an additional two years without requiring a new application. 

Applicants must be at least 21 years old, legal residents of Minnesota, and have lived and/or worked in the Rochester area (zip codes 55901–55906) for at least two years. Candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to poetry, an established body of published work, and a willingness to engage with diverse audiences, including adults and students.

A complete application includes a completed application form, a cover letter explaining the applicant’s interest and proposed community activities, a brief biography, a record of recent publications or performances, and ten pages of original poetry. Listed publications must include at least six poems published in peer-reviewed journals within the past three years. 

Applications must be submitted via email by Thursday, December 31, 2026. All written materials should be combined into a single PDF document and emailed to [email protected] with “Rochester Poet Laureate” in the subject line. 

More information is available on the Southeastern Minnesota Poets Facebook page and the city of Rochester website at rochestermn.gov. Any questions about the application process should be emailed to [email protected]. To request the formal application materials, interested applicants should email [email protected].