ZANESVILLE, Ohio (AVC News) — The Muskingum County Arts Council has launched its inaugural Youth Poet Laureate program for the 2026-27 term, creating a new opportunity for young writers to showcase their work and promote civic engagement, community service and equity.
The program is presented in partnership with Urban Word and sponsored by the Ohio Arts Council. It brings Muskingum County into a nationwide initiative that recognizes young poets who combine artistic achievement with community leadership.
The National Youth Poet Laureate Program was founded by Urban Word and is supported by literary institutions including the Library of Congress, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Academy of American Poets.
Joshua Prentice, executive director of the Muskingum County Arts Council, said the program will give young people an opportunity to share their creativity and leadership with the community.
“Poetry has a unique power to bridge divides and inspire change, and we are eager to give our young leaders a platform to shape the conversation,” Prentice said.
Beyond selecting a youth poet laureate, the initiative is intended to provide mentorship and support artistic development. The council said the program is one of only a few local partnerships of its kind in Ohio.
Prentice said he expects young poets and emerging community leaders in the area to be interested in participating.
By investing in young writers, the program aims to help participants build confidence and develop their ability to advocate for their communities and the region.
Submission guidelines, program benefits and additional information about the initiative are available at artsmuskingum.com.
Last Updated on October 14, 2026 by AVC News
