April is National Poetry Month, and that means it’s time for Dose of Poetry at Georgian Court University. The poetry series is celebrating its fourth year with events all around campus.
Creator and alumni Christine Marie Attardo ’11, had the idea for Dose of Poetry in 2015 while working at GCU’s Sister Mary Joseph Cunningham Library. It was her goal to combine approachable poetry discussions with creative writing exercises, while making it a fun experience for everyone. Ms. Attardo welcomes all lovers of poetry, “whether you write it, read it, research it, or just like to sit back and listen.”
With the support of faculty members Paul Cappucci, Ph.D., professor of English and director of the General Education program, and Pamela Rader, Ph.D., professor of English, her dream became a reality. The three have collaborated on all things Dose since its origin. Ms. Attardo continues to feel grateful for the support of the entire Department of English, where she was once a student.
“Christine has cultivated an inviting space to celebrate poetry on campus,” says Dr. Cappucci. “The welcoming atmosphere that she generates through each ‘Dose’ encourages students, staff, and faculty to explore their creativity and share their work with a supportive audience. These Dose of Poetry events showcase an energizing, creative spirit within our GCU community.”
“When April comes around, I associate it with ‘Dose,’ renewal, and collaboration because Christine has established the spirit of collaboration for writing prompts and for sharing poetry,” adds Dr. Rader. “And when we participate in ‘Dose,’ I think we participate in dialogue with and inspire creativity in one another.”
From William Carlos Williams to Mary Oliver, Dose of Poetry has covered a plethora of areas and continues to expand its horizons.
Here’s the April 2019 lineup:
Thursday, April 4
“Embodied Poetry: Dancing Lines and Thinking Bodies” with Visiting Poet Kirsten Kaschock
Presented by Kristen Park Wedlock
6:00–8:00 p.m. in the Mansion
Thursday, April 11
“Tea Leaves in the Garden: An Exploration of Japanese Poetry”
Presented by Michael Gross, Ph.D. & Christine Marie Attardo
6:00–8:00 p.m. in the Sister Mary Joseph Cunningham Library
Wednesday, April 25
“The Art of Walking: Poetry in Motion at Georgian Court”
Presented by Pamela Rader, Ph.D. & Paul Cappucci, Ph.D.
6:00–8:00 p.m. in the Mansion
All Dose of Poetry events are hosted by Christine Marie Attardo and sponsored by the Department of English. For more information, please contact Ms. Attardo at cattardo@georgian.edu.
