Lucas County Poet Laureate

Sandra Rivers-Gill

The Board of Lucas County Commissioners in partnership with The Arts Commission is pleased to announce that Sandra Rivers-Gill has been selected to be Lucas County’s 2026-28 Poet Laureate.


Past Poet Laureates include Jonie McIntire (2022-2026), Jim Ferris (2014-2020), & Joel Lipman (2008-2014).

Expectations of the Position

The Lucas County Poet Laureate is expected to: 

  • Contribute to the growth and awareness of poetry throughout Lucas County

  • Lead one (1) significant project unique to the individual that will inform future Poet Laureate programming and/or act as an archive of the Poet Laureate's influence or experience

  • Present annual report to Lucas County Commissioners to be documented in public minutes; complete final reflection paper and/or audio or video recording at the conclusion of the term

  • Attend statewide literary events and educational programs as schedule permits, including engagement with Ohio Poet Laureate

  • Contribute one (1) significant work developed during Poet Laureate term for public archives of the program

  • Assist in the transition of the succeeding Lucas County Poet Laureate