Andrea Gibson, the award-winning Poet Laureate of Colorado and a powerful voice in poetry and LGBTQ+ activism, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, at their home in Boulder after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Gibson was 49 years old.
Named Colorado’s 10th Poet Laureate in 2023, Gibson was renowned for their evocative poetry that explored themes of gender identity, social justice, mental health, and personal resilience. Over their career, they published six full-length poetry collections, won the first Women’s World Poetry Slam, and received multiple Independent Publishers Awards. Their work often reflected their journey with cancer, shifting from writing about the world’s injustices to envisioning a better future.
Gibson’s death was announced by their wife, Meg Falley, and they were surrounded by loved ones including family, friends, former partners, and their beloved dogs. Governor Jared Polis expressed deep sorrow, praising Gibson’s unique ability to inspire and connect with diverse audiences across Colorado and beyond.
Andrea Gibson’s legacy endures through their poetry, advocacy for arts education, and their role as a beacon of hope and courage for the LGBTQ+ community and poetry lovers worldwide.