It has been given annually since 2006 to an American poet for an unpublished book-length manuscript of formal poetry.

The submissions are judged blindly and selected by a notable poet who works in traditional forms.

Past judges have included Erica Dawson, David Mason,[3]A. E. Stallings,[4] and Marilyn Nelson.

Prior to 2018, winning poetry collections were either published by Measure Press or West Chester University.

The award is presented at the annual West Chester University Poetry Event each spring.