Caddo Parish Poet Laureate named

CADDO PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — The Caddo Parish Commission has named its next Caddo Parish Poet Laureate.

Caddo Parish Commissioners selected Crystalyn Whitaker-Nelson, a Caddo Parish native, former English and history teacher, lyricist, and vocalist in the locally acclaimed music group, Tipseythe Band, as their next 2025-2028 poet laureate.

The Parish of Caddo says Whitaker-Nelson will be responsible for highlighting the local community and engaging young citizens in finding their own poetic voices through local events, such as Artbreak, poetry readings, and more.

Whitaker-Nelson holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Northwestern State University and a Master of Science in Education from Louisiana State University at Shreveport, says the Parish of Caddo.

“I am honored to be selected as the Caddo Parish poet laureate,and there is no place I know better than Caddo Parish,” said Whitaker-Nelson. “This position is a profound culmination that allows me the platform to infuse youth and adults with tangible art that is meaningful to all, and I look forward to orchestrating poetry experiences in our communities that need the spirit that only creativity can yield,” said Whitaker-Nelson.

Poet Laureate Whitaker-Nelson will receive an annual honorarium stipend of $1,500 provided by the Caddo Parish Commission over her three-year term.