Florida State Poets Association (FSPA) Inc. was founded by Henrietta A. Kroah of Deland, Florida. She was assisted by Hans Juergensen, who was the past president of the National Federation of State Poetry Societies (NSPS). The Florida State Poets Association is a nonprofit, tax exempt organization founded in October 1974 and chartered by the State of Florida in July 1979. We are a member of the National Federation of State Poetry Societies and maintain local chapters throughout the state.

The main objectives of FSPA:
    a) To secure a fuller public recognition of the art of poetry
    b) To stimulate a finer and more intelligent appreciation of poetry
    c) To provide opportunity for study and incentive for practice in writing and reading poetry

Since 1975, FSPA has grown up to 7 chapters as well as members-at-large. FSPA Executive Board consists of selected officers and Chapter Presidents. FSPA has established a fiscal year from November 1 to October 31. FSPA recognizes poetry to the state cultural heritage and furthers it on all levels.

FSPA Emblem: FSPA used the state of Florida as an emblem with a quill pen in an inkwell. The emblem was designed by Coleen Ward in November 1984. Ms. Coleen Ward is from Melbourne, Florida and this emblem has been used ever since. (Emblem located on background of website)

FSPA Membership: There are two categories that all members can choose from: members-at-large (1) or members of a chapter (2). For a new school to be certified as a chapter by FSPA, one must obtain five poets who will meet regularly at meetings and serve on the Executive Board. For a member to stay certified, they and their chapter must renew their certification each year. Each member within the chapter pays $20 to FSPA in order for their chapter to remain certified. For more information, contact Ms. Madelyn Eastlund at verdure@tampabay.rr.com.

FSPA Events and Activities: FSPA hosts three main events each year: Spring Fling, FSPA Annual Convention, and FSPA Poetry Contests.

Newsletters: There are two publications that are given to each member: Of Poets and Poetry (OPAP) and Strophes. OPAP comes from FSPA and is edited by Madelyn Eastlund; which can be reached at verdure@tampabay.rr.com