Photo By: Jef Janis

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Heights Arts Announces Michelle R. Smith as the New Heights Poet Laureate

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH – Heights Arts is excited to announce Michelle R. Smith as the 12th Heights Poet Laureate. Smith, a poet and literary advocate, was selected by the Heights Writes Community Team from a pool of highly qualified applicants. She will begin her two-year term in April 2025, representing the cities of Cleveland Heights, University Heights, and Heights Arts.

Smith is known for her creativity and advocacy in the arts. As the creator, producer, and director of Blax Museum, an annual performance showcase celebrating notable Black figures in American history and culture, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to cultural storytelling and artistic innovation. Smith is also the author of Ariel in Black (Guide to Kulchur Press) and will soon release The Real Jazz Wives of Twentieth Century America.

In her role as Poet Laureate, Smith will work to foster community engagement with poetry. She will host public readings, workshops, and other events, bringing poetry to a broader audience across the Heights communities. Additionally, Smith will lead Heights Arts’ Ekphrastacy series, which invites poets to create and perform original works inspired by visual art exhibitions.

“I am truly honored to serve as the Heights Poet Laureate and look forward to a wonderful two years of connecting with the community,” said Smith.

The Heights Poet Laureate program is the longest-running laureateship in Ohio, established through a partnership between Heights Arts and the cities of Cleveland Heights and University Heights. Local officials have expressed their excitement about Smith’s appointment.

University Heights Mayor Michael Brennan said, “We are thrilled to support the arts, and adding poetry to our city’s cultural events has been an inspiration for our residents.”

Cleveland Heights Council President Tony Cuda echoed this sentiment, stating, “The Heights Poet Laureate program is a cherished tradition that makes our community unique and special.”

For more information about Heights Arts and the Heights Poet Laureate program, visit www.heightsarts.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Sylvia Munodawafa

Heights Arts – Marketing and Communication Manager

marketing@heightsarts.org

216 371 3457