Doctor Laura Tohe appointed as Arizona’s second-ever Poet Laureate

PHOENIX, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has appointed award-winning poet and writer Dr. Laura Tohe as the state’s next Poet Laureate.

Tohe becomes only the second person to ever hold the position, bringing with her a distinguished career in poetry, education, and literacy that spans several decades. An Arizona native, Tohe is a professor emerita of English at Arizona State University, where she taught for more than 24 years.

In her new role, Tohe says she hopes to continue sharing her passion for poetry while expanding access to literary arts across the state, particularly in areas that don't have as easy of accessibility to poetry and literature.

“Actually, in a way it was what I also did as a Navajo Nation Poet Laureate, was to bring poetry to some of the smaller and rural communities who may not have the access to poetry,” Tohe said. “That’s one of the goals I want to work on.”

Tohe previously served as Poet Laureate of the Navajo Nation from 2015 to 2025, an experience she says will help guide her efforts to reach diverse communities throughout Arizona.

As Poet Laureate, Tohe will serve as an ambassador for poetry and literacy, promoting creative expression and engagement with the arts across the state.