Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced that Jewel Rodgers, of Omaha, has been designated as Nebraska’s next State Poet. The selection process was led by the Nebraska Arts Council,
Humanities Nebraska, and the Nebraska Library Commission, a group of state agencies and organizations that together presented finalists to the Governor for consideration.
“Jewel has received numerous honors and awards for her presentations. As someone who excels at speaking, as well as writing, she will be a great ambassador for Nebraska in the role of state poet,” said Gov. Pillen. “Jewel joins the ranks of other notable writers and poets from Nebraska who have distinguished themselves and inspired future generations through their creativity.”
Rodgers is a 3-time Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards (OEAA) nominee, represented Nebraska at the 2024 Blackberry Peach Poetry Slam (where she was a finalist), and was also a 2022 Union for Contemporary Art fellow. An interdisciplinary poet, performer, and visual artist, she is also an urban engagement specialist, youth coach, and spatial practitioner in the Midwest.
The Nebraska State Poet is selected based on artistic excellence and exemplary professionalism demonstrated by significant publications and special honors, an established history of community service in the advancement of poetry in Nebraska, and the ability to present poetry and interact effectively with a public audience.
Rodgers will be installed as Nebraska State Poet for 2025-2029 during a ceremony that will be announced at a later date. She is preceded by Matt Mason, who served as the state poet from 2019-2024. His tenure ended on December 31st, 2024.
To learn more about Jewel Rodgers, visit her website at jewelrodgers.info. For information about hosting the state poet with the Nebraska Arts Council’s “Presenting the State Poet” grants, visit artscouncil.nebraska.gov or contact the office at (402) 595-2122.
About the Nebraska Arts Council
The Nebraska Arts Council (NAC), a state agency, provides numerous grants, services and special initiatives that help sustain and promote the arts throughout Nebraska. NAC is supported by the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, Nebraska Legislature and National Endowment for the Arts.