About UTSPS

The Utah State Poetry Society is an organization dedicated to the creation and appreciation of poetry. While the major activities focus on writing, members are encouraged to read and listen to the great poetry of our time and our heritage. 

If you are a lover of poetry and/or an aspiring poet, you will be rewarded in many ways by membership in the Utah State Poetry Society.

Sponsored by C. Cameron Johns, the first president, six charter members founded the Utah State Poetry Society on May 6, 1950. On October 18, 1963, the Society was incorporated under the laws of the State of Utah. 

Trustees listed were C. Cameron Johns, Betty W. Madsen, and Beulah H. Sadleir. 

Incorporators were Anne W. Hafen, Linne F. Robinson, Kathryn Kay, and Clinton F. Larson. 

Articles of Incorporation stated, “The period of duration of this organization shall be perpetual”, and the society was declared a non-profit corporation. 

UTSPS Officers

President: Markay Brown

President-Elect: Russell Asplund

Advisory President: Michael Parker

Secretary: Maurine Haltiner

Treasurer: Marilyn Marshall

Membership Chair: Susan Foster

General Contest Chair: Barbara Funke

Judges Clerks: Crystie Cook & Louise Cook

Contest Clerk: Pam Tucker

Book of the Year Chair: N. Colwell Snell

Youth Chair: To Be Determined

Technical Advisor: Paul Ford

UTSPS Documents