Increasingly recognized as a go-to destination for enrichment in Conroe and Montgomery County, the USTMAX Center launches the 1st Annual Vince D’Amico Memorial Poetry Reading and Open Mic event. So clear your calendar for January 31, 2021, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Center.

Special Guests

Special guests will be:

• David Parsons, 2011 Texas Poet Laureate
• Dede Fox, Montgomery County Poet Laureate
• Dr. Janet Lowery, University of St. Thomas professor of English, poet and playwright

The Poetry Itself

The gathering will feature the poetry of American writer Robert Frost (stay tuned for why) and original poetry about faith and education.

About the Event’s Namesake

The event marks one year since the death of a beloved UST alumnus, Vince D’Amico ’52, who was 90 when he passed. Before his days on earth were over, he would demonstrate his ardent support of the University’s mission, donating more than $1 million to its students and programs. His gifts included a generous parcel of land in Conroe.

After his graduation, the Stetson-hat-wearing D’Amico became an English teacher, who said, “Poetry begins in delight and ends in wisdom.”

The Robert Frost Connection

In 1958, his admiration for the works of Robert Frost emboldened him enough to drive along the country road that led to the poet’s home in Vermont. He would unexpectedly see Frost walking and give him a lift! What a lasting impression that chance encounter had on the young man. For the rest of his life, D’Amico would keep and treasure the 1951 Mecca Maroon Plymouth he was driving that day. He would also further deepen his appreciation for the writings of Frost.

Carla E. Alsandor, Ph.D and senior director of the USTMAX Center, said, "This annual event is our way of remembering Vince on the anniversary of his death, while also introducing lovers of the literary arts to the USTMAX Center. So what better way to honor Vince than with a Robert Frost-inspired poetry reading and open mic night?"

Get more information on the January 31 gathering here.