Richard Blanco is an American poet, public speaker, author and civil engineer. In 2013, Blanco was chosen to serve as the fifth inaugural poet of the United States. Blanco performed "One Today," an original poem he wrote for the occasion, becoming the youngest, first Latino, immigrant, and openly gay writer to hold the honor. Blanco has received numerous honors for his writings and performances, including the Woodrow Wilson Visiting Fellowship, a Florida Artist Fellowship, and a Bread Loaf Fellowship, as well as honorary doctorates from Macalester College, Colby College, and the University of Rhode Island. He was also named the first ever education ambassador for the Academy of American Poets. his newest collection is "How to Love a Country."