JEFFERSON CITY — Missourians who have a way with words are being encouraged to apply to become the state's next poet laureate.
The person chosen by Gov. Jay Nixon will serve a two-year term and be expected to present poetry and give lectures to school, community and civic groups across the state.
The current poet laureate is David Clewell of St. Louis, a professor of English at Webster University.
The deadline to submit an application for the unpaid position is Feb. 24. Application forms can be found on the governor's website.
A five-member advisory council will evaluate applications and recommend candidates to the governor.