August 2, 2017
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Alabama Writer's Conclave Introduces the New Alabama State Poet Laureate
The Alabama Writer's Conclave is proud to announce that Jennifer W. Horne of Cottondale, Alabama has been named the Alabama State Poet Laureate, pending certification by Governor Ivy. This position was created by the Alabama State Legislature to recognize and honor a citizen poet of exceptional talent and accomplishment.
In a four-year term of service, the Alabama Poet Laureate encourages appreciation of poetry and literary life in Alabama. The position is honorific with no compensation.
Jennifer Horne was unanimously selected by the AWC membership after a committee carefully reviewed applications and made their recommendation. Poet Laureate Nominations Committee Chairperson Jessica Jones says:
“While all the nominees were absolutely worthy of the title Poet Laureate of Alabama, Jennifer Horne's curriculum vitae was the most impressive thing I've ever seen. Her poetry is stunning and it has a southern charm and personal connection that, I dare say, many readers will be thrilled to experience.”
The AWC selection has been presented to the governor of Alabama for certification as per state law. Additional members of the Nominating Committee included Shanti Weiland, Matthew Layne, Jodi Adamson, and Jeanie Thompson.
In accepting the nomination at the 2017 Alabama Writer's Conclave Conference in Hoover, Jennifer Horne stated:
"I am so honored to have this opportunity to represent and advocate for the literary arts in Alabama. We have a rich literary tradition and a vibrant and diverse literary culture. Poetry and other forms of writing are some of the best ways we have developed as humans to understand and empathize with one another. When we celebrate, fall in love, mourn, praise, or try to explain ourselves to ourselves, we turn to writers and writing to express our deepest feelings and grapple with our most powerful experiences. I am looking forward to working with writers, readers, and community leaders to enhance appreciation for the written and spoken word in our state."
Jennifer Horne's new term will begin as soon as Alabama Governor Kay Ivey certifies the nomination.
MEDIA INQUIRIES:
T. K. Thorne, President, Alabama Writer's Conclave, tk@tkthorne.com
Jennifer Horne, 205-799- 7941, forjenhorne@gmail.com