The city of Bremerton has appointed Sarah Steinke as its new Poet Laureate.

Steinke, a published poet, educator, yoga instructor and licensed psychotherapist, brings a unique perspective to the role, blending creative expression with a focus on healing, embodiment and connection. She succeeds Tia Hudson, a retired teacher of creative writing at Olympic College and a published poet, who served as the city’s inaugural Poet Laureate from 2019 to 2024.

“Sarah Steinke’s experience and passion for poetry and literary arts will help guide the role of the city’s Poet Laureate,” said Mayor Greg Wheeler, who launched the program in 2019. “We are delighted Ms. Steinke will continue to support the art form and bring her creative vision to the program.”

Steinke holds a Master of Fine Arts in Poetry from the University of Washington. Her poetry has been featured in several journals including Ars Poetica, Crab Creek Review, Southern California Review and Hayden’s Ferry Review. Her chapbook, Words Could Not Make It More True, was published by Finishing Line Press.

She said her relationship with poetry began early. “I think I’ve been writing poetry ever since I could write,” she said. “My first poems were written in the wallpaper border of my bedroom.”

Steinke views poetry as a form of embodied language—an essential way of expressing what can’t always be said directly. “Words can be limiting, but they’re also what we have to connect with each other. Poetry allows us to think, feel and know all at the same time,” she said.

Her work in mental health counseling and yoga deeply informs her creative practice. “Trauma is an embodied experience, and poetry, like psychotherapy and yoga, helps integrate what’s been fractured,” she said. “We can use words to hide, or we can use them to really touch something meaningful.”

Steinke draws inspiration from Maya Angelou’s words: “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” She said the quote has guided her both personally and professionally, and it mirrors her belief that everyone is doing their best, even when progress feels imperfect.

As Poet Laureate, Steinke hopes to “lift up local voices,” particularly those who may not yet see themselves as artists or poets. “If you have a body, you have a poem,” she said. “Poetry is a way to move closer to connection through sharing experiences, images and stories.”

Her plans for the position include hosting public readings, leading community writing workshops, and collaborating with local artists, schools, libraries and businesses. She is actively seeking new partnerships and encourages community members to reach out with ideas.

“My hope is that we might be able to hear each other, to listen and to express ourselves,” she said. “And in that, find connection.”

Director of Parks and Recreation Tim Barker said the city is excited to welcome Steinke into the role.

“We look forward to the opportunities she will create for the community to interact with poetry,” he said.

Information on Steinke’s upcoming events and projects will be posted at www.bremertonwa.gov as it becomes available.

Community members can also contact the Bremerton Parks and Recreation office at 360-473-5305 for more details or to inquire about collaboration opportunities.