Learn about our department’s two visiting writers and poets series
The Claire Gilbert Marty Visiting Writers Series was established in 2017 in honor of the late Claire Gilbert Marty, a St. Olaf alumna who exhibited a passion for literature and how the intricacies of human relationships could be illuminated through the literary arts. The Visiting Writers Series established in her memory seek to both honor her character, faith, and intellect, and to enrich the St. Olaf community by inviting writers whose work complements Claire’s fascination with the complexities of life and appreciation for wit and humor.
We expect to host the next Claire Gilbert Marty Visiting Writer in the spring of 2026.
Past Distinguished Writers
2017: Ramona Ausubel
2019: Jamel Brinkley
2022: Marilyn Nelson
2024: Rebecca Makkai
In April of 2023, the English Department of St. Olaf College is proud to host the first installation of the Marilyn Nelson Visiting Poet Series. This series seeks to celebrate the work of distinguished poets who embody the legacy of the celebrated writer–and former St. Olaf professor–Marilyn Nelson. More information on Marilyn Nelson can be found here.
Our first Marilyn Nelson visiting poet will be Evie Shockley. The featured event for her visit will be a poetry reading on Thursday, April 6 at 7:00 PM in Viking Theater. She will also be visiting classes during her time in Northfield. More information on Evie Shockley and her work can be found here and here.