Poets to Be Honored at Reception Co-Hosted by U.S. Senate Cultural Caucus

Washington, DC—The 2023 National Student Poets will be honored today at a special reception celebrating National Poetry Month by the Institute of Museum and Library Services and honorary co-hosts the United States Senate Cultural Caucus. During the event at the Capitol Visitor Center, the five 2023 National Student Poets will debut a collective poem showcasing the importance of literacy.

First Lady Dr. Jill Biden appointed the 2023 National Student Poets in a ceremony at the White House in November. Since then, the Poets have served as literary ambassadors leading readings and workshops at museums, libraries, and schools, sharing their passion for poetry, literacy, and the literary arts with their communities and regions.

“These inspirational, diverse young poets showcase the importance of advancing literacy and how words can ignite social change,” said IMLS Acting Director Cyndee Landrum. “We are proud to partner in a program that is designed for poets to perform their work at libraries and museums across the nation, which serve as trusted institutions that promote inclusion and belonging and help to foster the next generation of leaders.”

During the reception, the Poets will engage with elected officials and key caucus members, providing a unique opportunity to showcase the impact of federal support in cultivating youth involvement in cultural arts. Guests will also enjoy an assortment of treats that have been provided by the Ferrero Group, in their continued support of youth arts and culture.

Representing five geographical regions of the nation, the 2023 National Student Poets are: Jacqueline Flores (Southeast), Fort Meade Middle Senior High School, Zolfo Springs, Florida; Miles Hardingwood (Northeast), Hunter College High School, Brooklyn, New York; Shangri-La Hou (Midwest), John Burroughs School, St. Louis, Missouri; Kallan McKinney (Southwest), Norman High School, Norman, Oklahoma; and Gabriella Miranda (West),Rowland Hall, Salt Lake City, Utah. 

The National Student Poets Program is the nation’s highest honor for youth poets presenting original work. This partnership between IMLS and the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers recognizes student poets’ achievements at the national level and highlights the importance of literacy. 

Click here to hear more from the Class of 2023 Poets.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation's libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America's museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. IMLS envisions a nation where individuals and communities have access to museums and libraries to learn from and be inspired by the trusted information, ideas, and stories they contain about our diverse natural and cultural heritage. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.