The University of Tulsa's Francine Ringold Named Poet Laureate of Oklahoma

Wednesday, July 02, 2003

Francine Ringold, poet and editor of Nimrod International Journal of Prose and Poetry at The University of Tulsa, has been named poet laureate of the state of Oklahoma by Gov. Brad Henry. As poet laureate, Ringold will give public readings and organize events that will broaden the scope poetry in the state. The post runs through 2005.

Ringold is a published writer of prose, poetry and plays, Her book “The Trouble with Voices” received the Oklahoma Book Award in 1996. Her newest volume of poetry, “Every Other One,” a collaboration with her husband Manly Johnson, was a finalist for the same award in 2000.

Ringold has taught literature, creative writing and theatre at The University of Tulsa, as well as in the Oklahoma State Arts in Education and Artists in the Schools programs, at the Oklahoma School for the Deaf, and at the Tulsa Center for the Physically Limited. Ringold received her Ph.D. in English Literature from The University of Tulsa and her bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan.

Ringold has also published two books about creative writing: “A Magic Journey: Writing and Painting at Gatesway,” focused on her work for the developmentally disabled, and “Making Your Own Mark: A Guide to Writing and Drawing for Senior Citizens.” Ringold has served as Humanities Scholar in Residence for KWGS-FM radio, and as advisor to the Arts and Humanities Council of Tulsa, Tulsa Opera and the American Theatre Company. In 2003, she was named Newsmaker of the Year by Women in Communications in Tulsa.

Ringold has served as editor of the Nimrod journal for more than 35 years and each year organizes the prestigious Nimrod Hardman Awards Workshop and Conference, which draws participants from around the world. For more information, visit http://www.utulsa.edu/nimrod/.