History
In 2005 five members of the Farmingdale Poetry Group approached the Nassau County Legislature to establish a Nassau County Poet Laureate (NCPL) Law. On May 3, 2006 the NCPL Law was passed by the Nassau County Legislature. Maxwell Corydon Wheat, Jr was unanimously selected by the NCPL panel as the first NCPL and was acclaimed by the poetry community on June 24, 2007.
The Nassau County Poet Laureate Society was formed to assure continuity into the future of the Poet Laureate position.
Archive records of our Nassau County Poets Laureate are now under the care of the Long Island Studies Institute at Hofstra University. You are welcome to inquire at Hofstra’s Donald Axinn Library.
Mission
To select and support the Nassau County Poet Laureate, to encourage discovery of the poetic voice, to elevate appreciation for the written word, and to enrich the lives of poets and residents of Nassau County and the greater Long Island community through the art of poetry.
Patrons & Supporters
The Society wishes to acknowledge the generosity of all those who have helped to underwrite its mission. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Board of Directors
Paula Camacho, President
Ronald Scott, Executive VP
Lorraine Conlin, Vice President
Julie Gruber , Treasurer
Arnie Hollander, Secretary
Book Launch
The 2025 NCPLS Review, Vol XII, 2025 will be on November 25, 2025, 6:30 PM at the Bellmore Memorial Library
Poetry Contest
Our next contest for 2026 has started. Please visit the Poetry Contest information on this website for details.
Evelyn Kandel – Poet Laureate
