CHESHIRE, CT—The town of Cheshire has named award-winning poet and longtime educator Pat Mottola as its first-ever Poet Laureate, with a term running from February 2024 through December 2025. The appointment establishes a new volunteer position to represent the town in Connecticut's literary community and foster an appreciation for poetry among residents.

Mottola, who teaches creative writing at Southern Connecticut State University and is the president of the Connecticut Poetry Society, played a significant role in establishing the Poet Laureate position in Cheshire. She has expressed her enthusiasm for promoting the arts, stating that "Poetry is something people turn to for solace, enlightenment, and delight". As Poet Laureate, her responsibilities include organizing literary events and projects, such as an Earth Day poetry contest and poetry nights and writing workshops.

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Mottola has a diverse background in writing and education, having taught at both the university level and to senior citizens. Her accomplishments include: 

• Published works: She has authored three collections of poetry.

• Journal features: Her poems have appeared in various national publications.

• Literary service: She is the current president of the Connecticut Poetry Society and formerly edited the Connecticut River Review.

• Mentorship: She has mentored Afghan women writers. 

Mottola's recent collection, A Town Like That, has been noted for its insightful and compassionate portrayal of small-town individuals.

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