2025 Dutchess County Poet Laureate

Dutchess County established the Dutchess County Poet Laureate in 2016 to honor outstanding local poets, integrate poetry into the community, enrich the education of our young people, and enhance the County’s position as a cultural center in the Mid-Hudson region. The inaugural Poet Laureate, Robert Kelly, served in 2016, followed by Poet Gold (2017-2018), Raphael Kosek (2019-2020), Dr. Lucia Cherciu (2021-2022), and Stephanie JT Russell (2023-2024). Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino has appointed Beacon resident Ruth Danon as the 2025 Dutchess County Poet Laureate.

2025 Ulster County Poet Laureate

Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger instituted the Ulster County Poet Laureate program in 2023. New Paltz resident Kate Hymes served from 2023 to 2024. Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger announced she has appointed Walkill resident Mike Jurkovic as the County’s 2025 Poet Laureate, bringing poetry to residents of all ages throughout the county.