Bruce Dethlefsen
Wisconsin Poet Laureate
Bruce Dethlefsen, of Westfield, was named in December 2010 the next Poet Laureate of Wisconsin. Dethlefsen succeeds Marilyn Taylor, whose term expired at the end of 2010. Until recently an appointment by Wisconsin's acting Governor and based on the recommendation of the Poet Laureate Commission of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Poet Laureate appointment is now under stewardship by the Wisconsin Academy.
Wisconsin Poet's Laureate are required to choose and lead one large-scale project that contributes to the growth of Wisconsin poetry. They must also plan and attend at least four statewide literary events each year and perform in at least four government, state, and civil events as requested by Wisconsin school systems, libraries, and literary organizations.
Dethlefsen intends to use his position as the Wisconsin Poet Laureate to promote the writing and sharing of poetry throughout the state. He plans to encourage and support local cultural and creative talent by organizing local poetry readings in public libraries, schools and coffee houses throughout the State. "I look forward to being an ambassador for the wonderful poets and poetry of Wisconsin," says Dethlefsen.
Dethlefsen received a BS from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and an MS from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. He has published three books of poetry and has been published in countless journals of poetry. Dethlefsen is the recipient of several distinguished poetry prizes. He spends much of his time coaching, teaching, leading workshops and judging poetry throughout Wisconsin.
More information on Dethlefsen's poetry, books, and public appearances can be found on his website,brucedethlefsen.com.
