The Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest is an annual competition for young poets in the United States. It was established in memory of Nancy Thorp, a young poet who passed away at the age of 37. The contest is organized by Hollins University, a private liberal arts university in Roanoke, Virginia.
Who Can Participate?
The Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest is open to young women in high school. The competition is free to enter, and each participant may submit up to three original poems. The poems can be on any topic and in any style. The contest is judged by a panel of distinguished poets, and the winners receive cash prizes.
Why Participate?
Participating in the Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest is an excellent opportunity for young poets to showcase their work and gain recognition. The winners receive cash prizes, and their poems are published in Cargoes, Hollins University's literary magazine. The contest also provides a platform for young women to express themselves creatively and share their unique perspectives with the world.
How to Enter?
To enter the Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest, participants must submit their original poems via email. The submission deadline is March 1st of each year. The poems must be typed in 12-point font and double-spaced. The participant's name, address, phone number, and email address should be included on a separate cover sheet. The poems should not include any identifying information.
Previous Winners
The Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest has been running since 1987, and many talented young poets have been recognized over the years. Some of the recent winners include:
- 2020: Kiana Carrington from Saint Paul, Minnesota
- 2019: Grace Kessler Overbeke from Minneapolis, Minnesota
- 2018: Grace Montgomery from Louisville, Kentucky
- 2017: Emma Camp from Murfreesboro, Tennessee
- 2016: Lauren Jackson from Charlotte, North Carolina
Final Thoughts
The Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest is a wonderful opportunity for young women to showcase their poetic talent and gain recognition. It provides a platform for young poets to express themselves creatively and share their unique perspectives with the world. If you know a young woman who is passionate about poetry, encourage her to enter the contest and take the first step towards becoming a recognized poet.
