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Meet the Howard County Poet Laureate & Youth Poet Laureate

Howard County Poet Laureate 2024 – 2026

Truth Thomas

Truth Thomas was appointed as Howard County’s first Poet Laureate. Thomas, whose poems have appeared in over 150 publications, including “The 100 Best African American Poems” (edited by Nikki Giovanni), will serve from April 2024 through March 2026. In this new role, Thomas will advocate for and contribute to Howard County’s poetic and literary legacy through public readings and participation in civic events.

Truth Thomas, 2024-2026 Poet Laureate (photo by Katie Simmons-Barth)
Truth Thomas reciting poem at the Celebration.

Howard County Youth Poet Laureate 2024 – 2025

Mai-Anh Nguyen

Mai-Anh Nguyen was appointed as Howard County’s inaugural Youth Poet Laureate. Nguyen is a student at Oakland Mills High School, active in the Youth Climate Institute, National Art Honors Society, National Spanish Honor Society, tennis and theater. Nguyen won the Jack Chalker Young Writer’s Contest and was a finalist for both the Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest and Bennington Young Writers Awards. She received unanimous support from the Review Panel to become the first Youth Poet Laureate.

Mai-Anh Nguyen, Howard County Youth Poet Laureate 2024-2025 (courtesy of artist)
2024 Youth Poet Laureate Mai-Anh Nguyen

About the Howard County Poet Laureate Program

About Poet Laureate Review Panelists

About Youth Poet Laureate Review Panelists