Karl Elder is Lakeland University’s Fessler Professor of Creative Writing and Poet in Residence.  Among his honors are the Christopher Latham Sholes Award from the Council for Wisconsin Writers; a Pushcart Prize; the Chad Walsh, Lorine Niedecker, and Lucien Stryk Awards; and a score of appearances in anthologies, including two in The Best American Poetry series.  His novel, Earth as It Is in Heaven, is from Pebblebrook Press.

For many years and since its inception, Mr. Elder has been associated with the literary magazine Seems—originally as a contributor, followed by poetry editor, and, since 1978, editor and publisher.

An Eagle Scout and a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow, Elder champions Scouting, for which his sons, Seth and Wade, served many years as professionals in the organization, as did both his daughters-in-law.  Elder and his wife, Brenda, a retired CCRN, live in Howards Grove, Wisconsin.  Their two grandsons—no surprise—are active in Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts.