Robert Casper Tapped to Lead Academy of American Poets

Jan 12, 2026

The Academy of American Poets has named Robert Casper as its president and executive director, effective January 26.

Most recently, Casper served as head of poetry and literature in the Literary Initiatives Office at the Library of Congress. In that role, he oversaw the U.S. Poet Laureate position and led other initiatives that placed poets in dialogue with the public through programs and digital outreach. Prior to joining the Library of Congress, he held leadership roles at the Poetry Society of America and the Community of Literary Magazines and Presses. He has also served as poetry chair of the Brooklyn Literary Council.

Casper’s appointment concludes a national search following the departure of the previous president and executive director, Ricardo Alberto Maldonado.