Poet laureate the post became a regular institution. Dryden's successor Shadwell originated annual birthday and New Year odes. The poet laureate became responsible for writing and presenting official verses to commemorate both personal occasions, such as the monarch's birthday or royal births and marriages, and public occasions, such as coronations and military victories. His activity in this respect varied according to circumstances, and the custom ceased to be obligatory after Pye's death. The office fell into some contempt before Robert Southey, but took on a new lustre from his personal distinction and that of successors Wordsworth and Tennyson. Wordsworth stipulated before accepting
Poet Laureate of the District of Columbia of the District of Columbia. She hosted events throughout the city including a day devoted to African American poetry during Black History Month. She also developed and managed the Young Champion Poets Program which provides local young poets the opportunity to write and perform their own poetry. Kendrick served until her death in November 2017. Poet Laureate of the District of Columbia The Poet Laureate of the District of Columbia of the official poet of the District of Columbia. The Poet Laureate is officially appointed by the Mayor of the District of Columbia and the DC Commission on the Arts