Congratulations, Poets!
The winners are:
Haneen Alkabasi, Avon High School
Alicia Chiu, William H. Hall High School
Jake Colangelo, Joel Barlow High School
Olatunji Osho-Williams, Westminster School
Maggie Munday Odom, The Grove School
Charlotte Watts, Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts
For the first time, the Fresh Voices readings were performed live via zoom. Many things were missing from the event—the historical and beautiful setting, the applause of the crowd, live music, and contemplative silences between each reading. Zoom can never replace live art. But even virtually, the students’ poetry was transcending. For one evening, these young poets created a community through their creativity, intense curiosity, and commitment.
Hill-Stead Museum is grateful to all the Fresh Voices Finalists for their efforts and willingness to participate. We are immensely appreciative of the Fresh Voices Judges, who had a challenging task this year! Thanks, too, to parents and teachers who supported our poets! A special thanks to Hill-Stead Museum’s sponsors and donors, especially the Ellen Jean Goldfarb Memorial Charitable Trust, our members, and our amazing interns and volunteers.
A video compilation of the Fresh Voices Poetry Competition reading will be coming soon for everyone to enjoy!
Please join us at the opening of the Sunken Garden Poetry Festival on Sunday, August 9. Winners will read their poems in person at Young Poets Day featuring acclaimed spoken word poet and activist, Mahogany L. Browne.
Learn more about the Fresh Voice Poetry Competition