Rockland Announces Poet Laureate

On January 14th, Rockland County Executive Ed Day and the Arts Council of Rockland (ACOR) announced Juan Pablo Mobili as the official Poet Laureate of Rockland County. Mobili, who was born in Argentina, has now lived in Rockland for almost two decades. Growing up with a principal for a mother and a poet and public servant as a father demonstrated for Mobili the importance of being engaged with community, and the power of language as a catalyst to develop self-discovery and compassion. 

 “Language is the foundation of authentic dialogue, and poetry is one of the most profound uses of language,” said Juan Pablo Mobili. “Poetry is a powerful way to express ourselves, connect deeply with others, and explore the beauty and complexity of life. I am honored to serve as Rockland County’s Poet Laureate and look forward to celebrating the power of words with our community.”

Mobili will be serving the county from 2025-2026, and as Poet Laureate he will be expected to be at the head of events such as public readings, civic events, and educational activities. 

Poetry is not Mobili’s only talent. Mobili has worked as a consultant for organizations such as The Lego Company, Nike and Disney, and as an executive coach at Wharton and Harvard Business School. 

Mobili’s first event as Poet Laureate will be a poetry reading titled “Echoes of the Heart: Life’s Joys and Sorrows”. This event will be free and available for the community to enjoy on February 20th from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Valley Cottage Library. 

For more information about Rockland’s new resident Poet Laureate check out this week’s County Executive Corner on Friday.