Virginia State University Professor Honored with Pulitzer Prize Nomination: A Beacon of Academic Excellence

Dr. Latorial Faison, a professor at Virginia State University, is making waves in the poetry world with her new book, Nursery Rhymes in Black. She’s up for a Pulitzer Prize in Poetry, which highlights her rising prominence.

This powerful collection, published by the University of Alaska Press, won the 2023 Permafrost Poetry Book Prize before its release on July 15, 2025. Dr. Faison draws upon her experiences as a Black woman in America. “This collection speaks to my heart and my history. I owe so much to poets like Gwendolyn Brooks and Nikki Giovanni, who paved the way for voices like mine,” she shared.

Nursery Rhymes in Black reimagines childhood rhymes through the lens of race and culture. It explores identity while connecting with readers on a deeper level. Dr. Faison is not new to this; she has authored over 16 works, including Mother to Son and 28 Days of Poetry Celebrating Black History.

Poetry has always been a reflection of society. According to a 2021 National Endowment for the Arts report, poetry reading in the U.S. has seen a revival, particularly among younger audiences. This trend suggests Dr. Faison’s work might resonate widely, offering insight into contemporary cultural issues.

Winners of the 2026 Pulitzer Prizes will be announced in early May 2026, and the excitement around Dr. Faison’s nomination is palpable. As the poetry community grows, her voice stands out as one that challenges and inspires.

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