ICYMI, the City of Greenville has a new (and its first) poet laureate: Greenvillian Glenis Redmond.

Chosen by the City’s Arts in Public Places Commission and approved by City Council on Mon., Sept. 26, Glenis will serve a two-year term starting Sat., Oct. 1, promoting literacy + literature among City residents of all ages.

“I believe poetry belongs to everyone,”Glenis tells the City of Greenville.

During her term, she’ll read poetry + speak at public meetings, venues, neighborhood and community events (think: The opening of Unity Park), and schools. She’ll also help the City introduce its first youth poet laureate.

City of Greenville interview with Glenis Redmond | Video via City of Greenville, South Carolina

When it comes to poetry, Glenis is no stranger, having practiced poetry professionally across the country for nearly 30 years.

Glenis’ poetry career began in Greenville as a student at Woodmont High School + member of Bethlehem Baptist Church. From local coffee shop poetry slams to world travels with the acting troupe Poetry Alive! to the TEDxGreenville stage, Glenis’ career has grown since her start in Greenville.

Over the last 20 years, she’s founded a number of poetry events + movements, including:

Greenville Poetry Slam (1995)
WordSlam, Asheville, NC (2007)
Writer-in-Residence at the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, Flat Rock, NC
Peace Voices (2011)

In addition to being published in a variety of publications, she’s also won multiple awards + honors, including:

The SC Governor’s Award for the Arts (SC’s highest award in the arts)
South Carolina Academy of Authors Inductee
Kennedy Center Teaching Artist
Cave Canem Poet
North Carolina Arts Fellowship (2005)
Vermont Writing Center Fellowship (2022)

Read more about Glenis’ achievements and career. Who are your favorite poets from the Upstate? Let us know.