Gerry LaFemina (he/him) is a poet, parent, professor, punk rocker, and community arts activist. As a writer, he has published over 20 books, including an acclaimed textbook, a novel, a collection of short stories, and multiple award-winning collections of poetry and prose poetry. He has also edited or co-edited numerous literary anthologies. His band the Downstrokes will release their fifth album in early 2026. He teaches at Frostburg State University, and, since 2015, in Carlow University's MFA Creative Writing Program; he also serves as a Fulbright Specialist in Literature, Writing, and American Culture. A former board member of the Association of Writers and Writing Programs, the Allegany Arts Council, and Frostburg First, he currently serves as Board President of Savage Mountain Punk Arts.