CLC welcomes acclaimed poet Cornelius Eady for Verse Like Water event 

Central Lakes College will welcome internationally acclaimed poet, educator, musician, and activist Dr. Cornelius Eady for a special Verse Like Water event on Wednesday, Nov. 18, at noon in the Chalberg Theatre on the Brainerd campus. 

The event, which is free and open to the public, will feature a poetry reading and concert by Eady and the Cornelius Eady Trio, followed by a book signing and craft talk. 

Eady is one of the nation’s most respected literary voices. A celebrated poet, teacher, activist, and musician, he has spent decades shaping contemporary American poetry while mentoring emerging writers. Since 1996, he has led Cave Canem, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and cultivating Black voices in American literature. 

His distinguished career includes numerous literary honors, university appointments, and leadership roles. Most recently, Eady served as a professor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and currently serves as Chancellor of the Academy of American Poets. 

Eady recently gained national attention after being selected to write and perform a poem for the inauguration ceremony of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. 

Joining Eady on stage will be members of the Cornelius Eady Trio, creating a unique performance that explores the intersection of poetry and music. The collaboration brings together poetry, guitar, and cello, offering audiences an opportunity to experience how language and music inform and inspire one another. 

As part of the event, attendees will receive a complimentary copy of Eady’s book, “Hardheaded Weather: New and Selected Poems”. 

Verse Like Water is Central Lakes College’s visiting poet program, bringing nationally recognized literary artists to campus and the community for performances, conversations, and educational opportunities.