Alison Pelegrin (’94) is Louisiana’s Poet Laureate and a writer in residence at Southeastern. Her passion for poetry inspires students to explore the power of language and helps communities connect through the written word.
Alison Pelegrin’s journey as a poet began at Southeastern, where she fell in love with poetry during her time as an honors student. Now, as Louisiana’s Poet Laureate, she travels the state sharing her love for the craft. Whether she’s working with Southeastern students or leading workshops at the Louisiana State Penitentiary, Pelegrin’s mission is to show that poetry has the power to connect and heal. Her innovative Lifelines Poetry Project brings together incarcerated writers and free community members, creating a space for meaningful dialogue through shared experiences and poems.
As a writer in residence at Southeastern, Peligrin’s passion for language shines through in her teaching. She encourages students to dig deep into their creative minds, offering them opportunities to grow as writers and thinkers.
Inspire a new generation of poets as a writer in residence and faculty member.
Expand the reach of poetry to underserved communities, including prisons and rural areas.
Receive a Poet Laureate Fellowship from the Academy of American Poets to fund the Lifelines Poetry Project.
Write and publish award-winning poetry collections, including works that reflect her Louisiana roots.
Receive Southeastern’s President’s Award for Excellence in Creative Activity—twice!
