U of L professor becomes state poet laureate
February 21st, 2005
Sena Naslund.
Kentucky’s new poet laureate is U of L English professor and well-known author Sena Jeter Naslund.
“I’m really thrilled about it,” Naslund said.
In announcing the two-year appointment, Gov. Ernie Fletcher noted that the state poet laureate program honors outstanding writers (not only poets) in Kentucky and promotes the state’s literary arts. Her installation is expected April 14.
“Considering Dr. Naslund’s impressive background and passion for the written word, we believe she is an exceptional candidate for this appointment,” Fletcher said.
Naslund, a U of L faculty member since 1973, has written several books, including the most recent civil rights novel “Four Spirits.” That 2003 book and the 1999 “Ahab's Wife: Or, the Star-Gazer” have been national best sellers.
Her other published works are “The Disobedience of Water: Stories and Novellas,” “Sherlock in Love,” “The Animal Way to Love” and “Ice Skating at the North Pole.”
Naslund received U of L’s distinguished teaching award in 1980 and the president’s award for outstanding scholarship, research and creative activity in 2000. She also is editor of the literary journal The Louisville Review.
