By Morgan Ratcliffe

Katharine Coles, U associate professor of English, was appointed Utah’s new poet laureate by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. on Friday.

Coles, who also serves as the English department’s director of creative writing, has published two novels and three collections of poetry, and her works have appeared in numerous anthologies and periodicals. Her most recent collection of poems, Fault, will be published in 2008.

“Katharine’s literary achievements and community service in teaching and writing are a tremendous asset as she helps bring poetry and the literary arts to the people of Utah,” Huntsman said in a written statement.

Coles will act as the leading public advocate for literary arts in Utah and will serve a five-year term of office.

The Utah Arts Counsel also announced its long-rang plan for the arts in Utah, which includes creating more art education for children and establishing a creative community initiative.

Photo courtesy of the College of Humanities