Michigan Humanities is thrilled to celebrate 20 years of Poetry Out Loud (POL) in our state and across the nation. In recognition of this milestone, we’ve invited Michigan POL alumni to share their stories and insight into their experience with the program.
Our next featured POL alumna is Lenora Whitney, the first runner-up at the 2025 Michigan Poetry Out Loud State Finals.
What did you value most about your Poetry Out Loud experience at your school and the State Finals?
I loved listening to other people’s interpretations of the poems. Doing the workshop with Shayna “Akanke” Marie truly opened my eyes to how impactful poetry is. Poetry is not about competing and seeing who can say the words best. Poetry is about sharing and experiencing beautiful moments of life with everyone listening.
What advice would you share with a student or teacher considering Poetry Out Loud?
I would say: do it! No matter where you place in the competition, the knowledge you gain and the people you meet will change your mindset forever.
Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this blog do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities or Michigan Humanities.