Stephanie Pacheco, the national youth poet laureate, has penned a heartfelt love letter to her school, Borough of Manhattan Community College, which is part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system. Titled “Dear CUNY,” the poem reflects Pacheco’s deep connection to the institution and the city it represents.
In her poem, Pacheco praises CUNY for its unique ability to intertwine with the fabric of the city, describing how every building is a student and every train cart a classroom. She acknowledges the challenges of being a student, but also highlights the value of the education she has received without accumulating extensive debt.
Pacheco, who was named the New York City youth poet laureate in 2023 and is also the first youth poet laureate for New York State, has been recognized for her exceptional talent in poetry. She started writing at a young age and began performing her poems at open mic events and poetry slams.
The 21-year-old writing and literature major was chosen as the national youth poet laureate last year, following in the footsteps of notable poets like Amanda Gorman. Pacheco’s poem will be showcased at an event at Queensborough Community College in honor of National Poetry Month.
In addition to Pacheco’s poetic achievements, a nonprofit group recently acquired the Metro Theater building on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. With the support of grants from New York State, the Upper West Side Cinema Center plans to transform the historic theater into a five-screen complex with a cafe.
The Metro Theater, which closed in 2005, has been a landmark in the community, and the nonprofit group’s purchase signifies a new chapter for the beloved venue. The group is seeking additional funding to renovate the interior, replace the marquee, and restore the theater to its former glory.
The acquisition of the Metro Theater marks a significant milestone for the Upper West Side community, with plans to create a vibrant cultural hub for cinema enthusiasts and residents alike. The support from government officials and prominent figures in the film industry has been instrumental in making this vision a reality.
As Stephanie Pacheco’s poetic tribute to CUNY and the revival of the Metro Theater demonstrate, art and culture play a vital role in shaping communities and fostering creativity. These endeavors reflect the resilience and spirit of New York City, highlighting the importance of preserving history while embracing innovation and artistic expression.
