Cecily Parks, Ph.D., an associate professor in the Department of English at Texas State University and acclaimed poet, has been selected as a Visiting Writer at the University of Texas for the upcoming academic term. In addition to the appointment, Parks’ latest poetry collection, “The Seeds,” has been named a finalist for the 2026 PEN/Voelcker Award for Poetry Collection, one of the country’s most distinguished honors for book-length poetry.
Parks is the author of three poetry collections, including “The Seeds,” “O’Nights” and “Field Folly Snow.” Her work has appeared in leading literary journals and anthologies, and she serves as guest editor of Best New Poets 2025. At TXST, she teaches poetry and creative writing, mentoring emerging writers while maintaining a vibrant presence in the national literary community.
As a visiting writer at the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas, Parks will engage with students, faculty, and the broader literary community through readings, workshops, and public lectures. This appointment reflects Parks’ commitment to fostering dialogue around contemporary poetry and creative practice.
The PEN/Voelcker Award for Poetry Collection recognizes outstanding achievement in book-length poetry by American authors. Parks’ “The Seeds” was selected as a finalist, placing her among a select group of poets honored for excellence in the craft. A winner will be announced on March 31, 2026.
Parks earned a bachelor of arts from Rice University, a master of arts from the Johns Hopkins Writing Seminars, a master of fine arts from Columbia University and a doctoral degree from the CUNY Graduate Center. Her poetry has been featured in The New Yorker, A Public Space, The Nation, The New Republic, and several editions of “The Best American Poetry.” Parks has also received multiple awards, including the Lucille Medwick Memorial Award and a Pushcart Prize.