John R. Mitchell (1940 – August 17, 2006) was a poet and a professor of English at Augsburg College in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He taught at the college for 36 years, dying at age 66. His work was featured in anthologies, such as 25 Minnesota Writers (Nodin Press, 1980), alongside the work of Jon Hassler, Patricia Hampl, and Carol Bly.25 Minnesota Writers (Minneapolis: Nodin Press, 1980).
Born in Decatur, Alabama, Mitchell received a bachelor's degree from Maryville College in Maryville, Tennessee, and earned his master's degree in English from the University of Tennessee.
He served in the Peace Corps in Liberia.Laurie Blakie, "Augsburg English Prof. John R. Mitchell, 66; Mitchell, who taught for 36 years at the college, is remembered for his passion for poetry, writing and film." Star Tribune (21 Aug 2006): n.p. He drew on that experience in his short story, "The Volunteer".25 Minnesota Writers (Minneapolis: Nodin Press, 1980). pp. 207-16. His poems were often published in the North Stone Review.Dave Wood,"Dave Wood's Book Report, Oct. 18, 2006", South Washington County Bulletin (October 18, 2006)
A literary prize is awarded in his name annually by Augsburg College, the John R. Mitchell Academy of American Poets Prize.The John R. Mitchell Academy of American Poets Prize
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