NC's new poet laureate named

Macon, who lives in Fuquay-Varina, will serve in the role for two years. She succeeds Joseph Bathanti.

“North Carolina’s poet laureates have had a passion for bringing poetry and literature to our citizens, and we look forward to witnessing Valerie Macon’s contributions to this long tradition,” N.C. Arts Council Executive Director Wayne Martin said in a statement.

Macon was the Gilbert Chapel Distinguished Poet for the Eastern Region for 2010-11 and has published two poetry books – “Shelf Life” and “Sleeping Rough.” The second title was nominated for a Pushcart Prize.

The role of North Carolina's poet laureate was first established in 1935. Guidelines call for the poet to be a North Carolinian with deep connections to the state’s culture, demonstrated literary excellence and influence on other writers and an appreciation of literature in its diversity throughout the state.