Adams County and Anythink Libraries are proud to announce Aerik Francis as the second Adams County Poet Laureate. This joint initiative celebrates the role of poetry in building community, fostering creativity, and amplifying diverse voices across the county. Francis’ two-year residency will connect communities through poetry and will host events at locations across Adams County and Anythink Library locations over the next two years, inviting the public to learn the craft of writing and performing poetry.
Francis is a celebrated poet, teaching artist, and literary organizer who brings a deep appreciation for language and poetry, and a strong commitment to community engagement. They have published multiple chapbooks, multiple spoken word albums, and have received poetry fellowships with CantoMundo, Sundress Academy for the Arts, the Chrysalis Institute, and The Watering Hole.
In addition to being an accomplished author, they are deeply connected to Colorado’s literary arts community. They have hosted youth programming at Lighthouse Writers Workshop, served as event coordinator for local poetry collective Slam Nuba, and have hosted events all around Colorado including open mics at RedLine Contemporary Art Center, UNTITLED at the Denver Art Museum and others.
In their role of Adams County Poet Laureate, Francis will serve as an idea ambassador for the county, enriching their own art practice and the community at large. Their programming will begin in early 2026 and will be rooted in “Conversations”, curating intentional spaces for community to come together for discussion and dialogue.
“Poetry is more than words on a page—it’s alchemy, it’s a catalyst for action. It’s a way of making meanings, building bridges, offering permissions, expressing identities, and celebrating the human experience,” said Aerik Francis, Adams County Poet Laureate. “I’m honored to bring poetry to the forefront in Adams County and look forward to continuing conversations and connecting with the community through this art form.”
To mark this occasion, community members are invited to a reception honoring Poet Laureate Aerik Francis on Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 5:00–6:30p.m. at the Adams County Government Center. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet Aerik Francis and be one of the first to see them perform in this role. The event is free and open to the public.
The Adams County Poet Laureate program is a collaboration between Adams County and Anythink Libraries, designed to promote and advocate for literary arts throughout the region.
“The Poet Laureate program reflects Adams County’s and Anythink’s shared belief in the power of the arts to spark imagination and dialogue,” said Mark Fink, Executive Director of Anythink Libraries. “Aerik Francis brings both artistry and vision to this role, and we are excited to see how their creativity will amplify diverse voices and enrich the cultural fabric of our region.”
“Adams County is proud to support the arts and elevate voices that reflect the richness and diversity of our community,” said Lynn Baca, Chair of the Adams County Board of Commissioners. “Aerik Francis embodies the spirit of this program, and we look forward to the inspiration they’ll bring to residents of all ages.”
The competitive selection process for choosing the second Adams County Poet Laureate included an open call for entry open to eligible Colorado-based poets with a connection to Adams County. Artists were required to have an established body of work including published/self-published works, reading/spoken word, and performance experience, as well as community project planning experience at the time of their application. Applications were reviewed by a Jury Selection Committee comprised of members of the Adams County Arts & Culture Commission, community members, and representatives from Adams County Parks, Open Space & Cultural Arts and Anythink Libraries.
To learn more about the Adams County Poet Laureate, subscribe to the Adams County Cultural Arts newsletter, Artfully Adams.
Welcome Reception Details
- November 6, 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.
- Adams County Government Center, 4430 S Adams County Pkwy, Brighton, CO 80601
- Light refreshments provided
About Adams County
With rich traditions and history, Adams County offers the best of suburban and rural life – vibrant cities, quiet towns, and miles of recreation. Located in the Denver metro area, Adams County is the state’s fifth-largest county serving a population of nearly 520,000 residents. Adams County is home to the cities of Brighton, Commerce City, Federal Heights, Northglenn, and Thornton; portions of Arvada, Aurora, and Westminster; the town of Bennett; and a portion of the town of Lochbuie. Unincorporated communities include Henderson, Strasburg, and Watkins. Stay up to date on the latest county news and information on adcogov.org, Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, and Instagram.
About Adams County Parks, Open Space & Cultural Arts
Adams County Parks, Open Space & Cultural Arts (POSCA) strives to significantly enhance quality of life, enrich communities, and INSPIRE. POSCA is dedicated to the growth and evolution of the arts in our communities. Our vision is to be an inclusive community where everyone can enjoy a rich diversity of art and culture experiences. Stay up to date on the latest county news and information on adcogov.org, Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, and Instagram.
About Aerik Francis
Aerik Francis (they/he) is a Queer Black & Latinx poet & teaching artist based in Denver, Colorado, USA. Francis is the author of the chapbooks BODYPOLITIC (forthcoming Spring 2026 with Abode Press), MISEDUCATION (May 2023, New Delta Review), and BODYELECTRONIC (April 2022, Trouble Department). They have received poetry fellowship support from SAFTA, the Chrysalis Institute, CantoMundo, and The Watering Hole. They are also a poetry reader for Underblong poetry journal and has poetry published widely. Learn more at phaentompoet.com.
