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Richard Blanco Fellowship in Creative Writing

The Richard Blanco Fellowship in Creative Writing was established in honor of alum Richard Blanco, upon the celebration of the 25th anniversary of FIU's Creative Writing Program. Through this fellowship, we aim to build an endowment to support master's-level graduate students from diverse backgrounds and disciplines in the Creative Writing program.

After the re-election of President Barack Obama, the two-time alumnus was named the fifth Presidential Inaugural Poet in U.S. history, joining the ranks of luminary American poets Robert Frost and Maya Angelou. He was the youngest, the first Latino, immigrant and gay person to serve in the role, reciting "One Today," an original poem he wrote for the inauguration in January 2013.

Richard Blanco poses with President Barack Obama

"Blanco's contributions to the fields of poetry and the arts have already paved a path forward for future generations of writers. Richard's writing will be wonderfully fitting for an inaugural that will celebrate the strength of the American people and our nation's great diversity."

— Barack Obama

Born in Spain to Cuban exile parents, Richard was raised in Miami. He holds engineering ('91) and creative writing ('97) degrees from FIU and leads successful careers in both fields. Richard's journey is a powerful demonstration of the innovative and diverse spirit of FIU. Through this fellowship, we will foster Creative Writing Fellows in pursuit of their own paths in their respective professional fields.

Support the Richard Blanco Fellowship in Creative Writing

Donations to the Richard Blanco Fellowship support the contributions and careers of graduate students from diverse backgrounds and disciplines in the Creative Writing program.

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