LYNCHBURG, VA – Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) is thrilled to announce that Ana Leng, an international student from Cambodia currently completing an associate degree through CVCC, has been named the inaugural Poet Laureate of Virginia’s Community Colleges (VCCS).
Leng’s accomplishment comes after a rigorous state competition held on April 6 at Piedmont Virginia Community College. The competition’s theme, “I belong,” inspired Leng’s poem titled “How Dare I Say That I Do Not Belong?” Her powerful words and captivating performance impressed the judges, earning her the prestigious title. Leng was one of more than 300 students who entered poetry or visual arts across the VCCS, highlighting the depth of talent within the community college system.
“As we were lined up on stage, I just remember thinking that everyone did so well and that each poem was so different and unique,” Leng said. “Hearing the host call out ‘Central Virginia!’ at first did come as a shock, but I remember feeling quite honored and grateful for the title and for everyone who helped me get to that moment. Once the shock wore off, all I could think was, ’It’s time to get to work!’”
Capping off her impressive win at the Virginia’s Community College System Poet Laureate competition, Ana Leng delivered a powerful performance of her winning poem, "How Dare I Say That I Do Not Belong?" at the VCCS New Horizons conference on April 10 in Roanoke.
Leng came to the U.S. to pursue higher education, intending to transfer after community college to pursue a psychology major. Fueled by her passion for mental health advocacy, Leng plans to pursue a career dedicated to aiding individuals in overcoming emotional and psychological hurdles to enhance their well-being. Her poem, titled “How Dare I Say That I Do Not Belong?” embodies her commitment to this cause. Beyond personal expression, Leng's intends to leverage her role as Poet Laureate to further awareness for mental health.
“We at CVCC are incredibly proud of Ana for her outstanding achievement. Ana’s dedication to her craft is an inspiration to all,” said CVCC President, John Capps.
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About Central Virginia Community College
Central Virginia Community College is a two-year state college located in Lynchburg, Virginia and is part of the Virginia Community College System. Established in 1966, CVCC serves students at its main campus in Lynchburg, and its off-site centers in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, and Campbell counties. The curricula and programs of the college serve more than 228,000 people within this geographical jurisdiction. With academic excellence as its aim in all areas, CVCC offers various programs to meet the diverse needs of the region it serves. Learn more about CVCC at centralvirginia.edu.