The State Poet Laureate program is facilitated by the Oklahoma Humanities Council on behalf of the Governor. It is an honorary position (usually a two-year term) that recognizes the accomplishments of an Oklahoma resident in the field of poetry.

Nominations for State Poet Laureate may by made by writing groups, poetry societies, and other literary organizations. The deadline for nominations for the 2009 State Poet Laureate is June 3, 2008. For information, contact Dr. Jennifer Kidney, Director of Literature Programs.

N. Scott Momaday – Oklahoma Centennial State Poet Laureate

Governor Brad Henry appointed N. Scott Momaday as the Oklahoma Centennial State Poet Laureate in 2007. Momaday is a noted scholar, author, and poet and won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1969 for his novel House Made of Dawn. When approached about what he wants to accomplish during his term as State Poet Laureate, Momaday indicated a particular interest in Poetry Out Loud and his desire to visit rural schools to promote its outreach.

Application for Appearances  [Click to download application]
Requests for Poet Laureate appearances must be made in writing on the attached application form. For information on arranging an appearance, contact Dr. Jennifer Kidney, Director of Literature Programs.

Links to Additional Resources

Interview with Scott Momaday
Poems by Scott Momaday
Past Poets Laureate