Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Poet Laureate topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Urbana names Nanetta Debony as 2026–27 poet laureate
Summary
The commission announced Nanetta (Nina) Debony as Urbana’s 2026–27 Poet Laureate; staff described Debony’s publications, awards and planned projects and said programming details will be reported at the next meeting.
The Urbana Arts and Culture Commission announced Nanetta Debony as the city’s 2026–27 Poet Laureate during its July 14 meeting. Interim Arts and Culture Coordinator Rachel Storm said Debony — who goes by Nina — was selected after a competitive review to serve a one-year term as an ambassador for poetry and creative expression.
Storm summarized Debony’s credentials to the commission, saying her work has appeared in Prairie Light Review and Tributaries and noting a prior award cited in the packet. "They were selected to serve a one year term, as an ambassador for poetry, language, and creative expression," Storm said, and staff has begun conversations with Debony about upcoming projects. Storm said there has already been interest in interviews and that the commission can expect project updates at future meetings.
Commissioners and former poet laureates attended an inauguration event for Debony on June 16; Storm thanked Mayor Deshaun Williams and past poet laureates for their remarks at the event. Staff said it will return with more details on Debony’s planned projects, dates and any media coverage.
