Wang Named Youth Poet Laureate

Wang Named Youth Poet Laureate

University School of Milwaukee student Angela Wang ’26 has been named Milwaukee’s third Youth Poet Laureate for the 2025–26 school year. 

High school juniors from Milwaukee County applied for the competition, and three finalists were selected in April. From there, finalists competed at a juried competition on May 10 at the Milwaukee Public Library’s Central Branch. 

Wang is excited to represent Milwaukee at events across the region, using the power of words to promote social dialogue, uplift young voices, and bring communities together. She plans to lead summer poetry workshops, host public readings, and develop initiatives that focus on food insecurity in Milwaukee, which she believes is deeply connected to equity and access in the city. Beyond poetry, she serves on the advisory board for Teen Court and the Children’s Wisconsin Teen Advisory Council, where she advocates for youth voices in civic and health care systems. 

“I’m honored to have been selected as the 2025–26 Milwaukee Youth Poet Laureate,” she said. “Writing and storytelling have always been deeply personal forms of expression for me. They allow me to explore, reflect, and connect. I hope my work inspires others to discover and share their own voices!”

Wang serves as the president of USM’s debate club and a volunteer coach at debate camps, encouraging others to find their voice and advocate for causes they believe in. She has had success on the national debate circuit and is an accomplished writer, having won numerous Scholastic Writing Awards in multiple categories, including poetry. She uses these skills to create a positive impact in her community.

As the 2025–26 Milwaukee Youth Poet Laureate, Wang will receive a $500 book allowance, a paid summer internship with Woodland Pattern (including a Poetry Camp counselor position), ongoing mentorship and support from Woodland Pattern throughout the Laureateship; along with opportunities to perform around the city, compete for regional and national titles, lead writing workshops for fellow youth poets, and connect with local organizations to spotlight social causes.

Wang joins USM alumna Emily Igwike ’24, who was named the first-ever Milwaukee Youth Poet Laureate in May 2023. 

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