Fiscal Note
The proposed resolution confirms the reappointment of Steven Espada Dawson as the Poet Laureate. The Poet Laureate is funded through the Madison Arts grants budgeted annually within the Planning Division's operating budget. No additional City appropriation required.
Title
Confirming the reappointment of Steven Espada Dawson to the position of Poet Laureate
Body
WHEREAS, Steven Espada Dawson has served as Madison Poet Laureate since January 15, 2024, thus nearing the completion of one two-year term in the honorary voluntary position; and
WHEREAS, the appointment of the City’s Poet Laureate may be extended for an additional two-year period upon agreement between the Poet Laureate and the City; and
WHEREAS, one June 10, 2025, the Madison Arts Commission approved the renewal of Steven Espada Dawson’s position as Madison’s Poet Laureate; and,
WHEREAS, his 2025 book, “Late to the Search Party,” published by Simon and Shuster, is garnering national attention to Madison’s Poet Laureate program, and
WHEREAS, in 2025, Steven Espada Dawson will receive an Academy of American Poets Laureate Fellowship to honor poets of literary merit appointed to serve in civic positions; and,
WHEREAS, Steven Espada Dawson wishes to continue serving as Madison’s Poet Laureate.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Steven Espada Dawson’s reappointment to the position of Poet Laureate is hereby confirmed, and the Mayor and the City agree that Steven Espada Dawson shall serve as Poet Laureate for an additional two (2) year period ending on January 16, 2028.