During her time at the UI from 2013-16, Joy Harjo was affiliated with the American Indian Studies program and taught a couple of writing courses through the English department. The nation's 23rd poet laureate is an award-winning poet, musician and, for a four-year stretch earlier this decade, former University of Illinois faculty member. Joy Harjo, a member of the Muscogee Creek Nation, is the first Native American to serve in the position. read more