Montana Poetry Out Loud

In February and March, high school students from across the state will be competing in Montana Poetry Out Loud regional-level and State Finals events. The events are held free of charge and the public is invited to attend. For further detail, contact Monica Grable at 406.444.6522 or Monica.Grable@mt.gov.

Regional Event Dates and Locations

1 PM | February 5, 2025 | University of Montana, University Center 326/327   

1 PM | February 6, 2025 | Flathead Valley Community College, 

1 PM | February 10, 2025 | University of Providence,

1 PM | February 11, 2025 | Montana State University-Billings,

1:30 PM | February 12, 2025 | Montana State University, 

Montana Poetry Out Loud State Finals

Saturday, March 8, 2025 | Grandstreet Theatre, Helena

10 AM Semi-Final Rounds

1:30 PM Final Round (Top 7) 

First Place: Jake Dunker

Jake Dunker is 18 years old and is a senior. Jake was born in Arizona and moved to Montana in 2012. Throughout his high school career, he has worked; been involved in many extracurricular activities and clubs such as National Honor Society and speech and debate; and has attended summer classes through the University of Montana and Harvard University. Jake hopes to study genetics and molecular biology in college.

Second Place: Eva Murray

Eva Murray is a sophomore at Anaconda Jr/ Sr High School. She was born and raised in Sitka, Alaska, before moving to Montana in November of 2021. Eva has been writing stories since she was little and really got into poetry last year. Poetry Out Loud has been a great opportunity to experience other people's stories in poetry. Upon graduation, Eva wishes to enroll at the University of Montana in Missoula and explore her interests from there. Long interested in writing and poetry, Language Arts might be what I study. I like to stay openminded about my future.

Third Place: Megan Donnelly

Megan Donnelly is from Butte, Montana and has always loved performing in front of a crowd. She’s been appearing in plays since second grade when she began acting in local theater productions. Megan joined the Speech and Debate team in high school, and has sought out other opportunities to be in front of crowds, whether it’s for her to act, sing, or compete in debate.

Visit the National Endowment for the Arts' Poetry Out Loud Home Page