This Is What the Next Chapter Sounds Like

The National Youth Poet Laureate Commencement will take place on Saturday, April 25, at Omaha’s Central Library, a powerful new civic space and the perfect backdrop for this historic moment.

A sponsor reception begins at 6:00 p.m., followed by the public program at 7:00 p.m. The sponsor reception is open to all event sponsors and will be catered by House of Bah.

The evening will feature performances from the four National Youth Poet Laureate finalists from across the country, alongside a reading by the 2025 Nebraska Youth Poet Laureate. The program will be hosted by Nebraska State Poet Jewel Rodgers and accompanied by DJ Errik Ejike.

This year’s Commencement coincides with the announcement of the 10th United States Youth Poet Laureate, a national program launched with Amanda Gorman as its first laureate. Nebraska is honored to host this milestone event and to welcome young artists and literary leaders from across the nation.

Hosting the National Youth Poet Laureate Commencement reflects years of sustained investment in youth literacy, artistic mentorship, and community building. This event offers a rare opportunity to showcase the vibrancy of Nebraska’s literary scene in a one of a kind environment, in partnership with Omaha’s newest and most significant public space.

For more information about sponsorships or event logistics, please contact Jessica at jessica@newriters.org.