Maureen McDole was born in St. Petersburg, Florida. She is a direct descendant of carnies, carpenters, and fishermen. This do-it-yourself ethos in her DNA infuses every area of her life. As far back as she can remember she loved to write.
She is the author of three books of poems, Exploring My Options (2006), Longing for the Deep End (2011), and Feast (2021). She has an English BA with Literary Studies Concentration from University of South Florida and a Certificate in Arts & Culture Strategy from University of Pennsylvania. Her poetry has been set in a variety of different ways including: film, dance, spoken word, art installations, Sprechstimme, and traditional vocal works.
Maureen has been leading workshops and speaking about creativity and leadership for over 20 years. She founded the literary arts organization Keep St. Pete Lit in 2013 because she believes wholeheartedly in the power of literature to change the world.
She is the artist-in-residence at GISJane, working in the fields of water restoration, climate adaptation, nature-based solutions, and community resiliency. She lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Paperback: 78 pages
Publisher: Kelsay Books (March 20, 2026)