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Poet Laureate Laura McDermott Matheric

Laura McDermott Matheric is a celebrated poet, educator, and advocate for the arts and education within her community. Her journey into the world of literature and teaching began with the publication of her first poetry collection, Visions on Alligator Alley, in 2015 by Lominy Books. This marked the start of a path filled with accolades and community engagement that continues to define her career.

At the heart of Laura's professional life is her role as a Professor of English at Broward College, where her passion for teaching and her dedication to her students have been recognized with two Endowed Teaching Chair Awards. Her efforts culminated in being honored as the 2022 Distinguished Professor of the Year by the Association of Florida Colleges—a testament to her impact on education in Florida.

Beyond the college classroom, Laura extends her expertise to the wider community, leading writing workshops and literature courses that inspire and engage. Her commitment to fostering a love for literature and writing saw her appointed as the first Poet Laureate of Coconut Creek in 2022. This historic appointment not only celebrates her contributions to poetry but also her role in enriching the cultural landscape of Broward County and beyond.

Laura's academic pursuits are deeply intertwined with her teaching and community work. She is currently working towards a Ph.D. in Higher Educational Leadership and Research Methodology at Florida Atlantic University. Her research focuses on innovational practices in higher education and exploring new avenues to strengthen the relationship between Broward College and the community at large.

On a personal note, Laura's life is enriched by her family. She resides in Coconut Creek, Florida, with her husband Walter and their two daughters, Jordan and Lena. Together, they share a life filled with love, creativity, and a deep commitment to their community.

A resolution appointing Laura McDermott Matheric as the City's first Poet Laureate for a two-year term beginning on September 1, 2022, and ending August 31, 2024.

Poetry in the Parks: Nature of Place

Led by the Poet Laureate Laura McDermott Matheric, these sessions aim to foster a deep connection with our surroundings and inspire creative expression. Laura will guide participants through various writing techniques tailored to capturing the essence of nature and place. This will be preceded by an informative presentation on the wildlife inhabiting our parks, delivered by Sharon Vollmer, Coconut Creek's Urban Forester and Mark Torok, Coconut Creek's Landscape Inspector.  

This poetry workshop series is made possible with support from the Broward County Cultural Division.

Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to showcase their work in a public reading, creating a vibrant exchange of ideas within our community.

May 11th Workshop

12:00-1:30 PM
Cypress Park
Pavilion #2
2465 NW 49th Terrace

June 8th Workshop

12:00-1:30 PM
Sabal Pines Park
Pine Pavilion
5005 NW 39th Avenue

July 20th Reading

12:00-1:30 PM
Rowe Activity Center
900 NW 43rd Avenue
(Participant reading)

Butterfly Capital of the World

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