(Des Moines) Dr. Paul Brooke has been named the Iowa Poet Laureate by Governor Kim Reynolds for the 2026-2028 term, an honorary designation recognizing an outstanding Iowa poet whose work and public engagement elevate poetry across the state. The two-year appointment celebrates artistic excellence and a commitment to sharing poetry with diverse audiences.
The announcement comes during National Poetry Month in April, a time to celebrate the power of poetry and spotlight the writers and programs that bring communities together through the literary arts.
As Iowa Poet Laureate, Dr. Brooke will serve as a statewide ambassador for poetry, participating in public readings, educational outreach and community-based literary engagement. The role represents Dr. Brooke’s achievement in poetry and creative expression.
A native of southwest Iowa, Dr. Brooke grew up in Minden, Treynor and Council Bluffs. His work as a poet, educator and advocate for the literary arts reflects a deep connection to place, culture and the natural world. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a commitment to making poetry accessible and meaningful for audiences of all backgrounds.
“Having been brought up in southern Iowa, I always wanted to be Poet Laureate,” said Dr. Brooke. “Poetry has been a constant in my life — it helps me express wonder, work through fear and loneliness and connect more deeply to the world around me. Poetry matters.”
The Iowa Poet Laureate is selected by the Governor from a list of nominees put forth by a volunteer citizen committee. The program is administered by the Iowa Arts Council, part of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, in partnership with Humanities Iowa. The honorary title is awarded to poets whose body of work demonstrates artistic distinction and whose public presence helps advance appreciation for poetry statewide.
Dr. Brooke joins a distinguished lineage of Iowa poets who have previously held the honorary designation, contributing to a lasting legacy of literary excellence in the state.
For more information about the Iowa Poet Laureate program visit:
