It is with gratitude that the Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) observes the close of Grace Cavalieri’s time as Maryland’s tenth Poet Laureate. Serving in this role since 2018, Grace’s tenure has been a tremendous success. She has inspired us with her eloquent words and given voice to our collective emotions, dreams, and experiences.

During her tenure as Poet Laureate, Grace has engaged in a diverse range of literary and community activities. She participated in the Chesapeake Writing Retreat at Washington College, where she nurtured her craft alongside fellow writers. At the Earth Day Arts Festival held by St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Annapolis, she celebrated the planet’s beauty through poetic expression. She paid tribute to a former Poet Laureate, Linda Pastan, by reading a poignant poem at a memorial service in her honor. She attended the "Poetry Meets Healthcare" event facilitated by the University System of Maryland Women's Forum. There, she advocated for the importance of poetry and literature in wellness, while also extending thanks to Maryland’s veterans through a poem acknowledging their sacrifices. 

In her dedication to nurturing the literary community, Grace led writers’ workshops for students, shared poetry with seniors through readings, and served as a judge for the state Poetry Out Loud competition. In addition, Grace currently hosts a podcast that spotlights Maryland poets and the poetry community to foster connections and inspiration. Her latest book The Long Game: Poems Selected & New will be released for Grace’s 91st birthday and compiles works from several of her previous volumes.

Join MSAC in reflecting on Grace's achievements and expressing gratitude for the impression she has left on our hearts and minds. Her dedication, enthusiasm, and artistry have been remarkable. Keep in touch with Grace and her work by clicking here. 

The Poet Laureate of Maryland is an honorary state position administered by MSAC at the discretion of the Governor. The Poet Laureate provides public readings and programs for the citizens of Maryland and ensures that people in all geographic regions of the state have access to at least one reading during the term of service. Click here to learn more.

The selection process for the next poet laureate is underway. Click here to subscribe for news on this and other MSAC activities.