Who Is Terrance Hayes? Age, Biography and Wiki
Terrance Hayes was born on November 18, 1971, making him 53 years old in 2025. He is a celebrated poet, known for his powerful lyrical style and thought-provoking themes that often explore race, identity, and social justice. Hayes has gained widespread recognition for his collections, including "Lighthead," which won the 2010 National Book Award for Poetry. His work continues to inspire a new generation of poets and readers alike.
| Occupation | Writers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 18, 1971 |
| Age | 53 Years |
| Birth Place | Columbia, South Carolina, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Terrance Hayes's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Hayes stands at approximately 6 feet (183 cm) tall, with an athletic build. While specific weight measurements are often private, he maintains a healthy lifestyle that reflects his active engagement in both physical and intellectual pursuits.
Hayes's first book of poetry, Muscular Music (1999), won both a Whiting Award and the Kate Tufts Discovery Award. His second collection, Hip Logic (2002), won the National Poetry Series, was a finalist for the Los Angeles Times Book Award, and runner-up for the James Laughlin Award from the Academy of American Poets.
He won the National Book Award for Lighthead (in which he invented the "golden shovel" poetic form), in 2010.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
While Terrance Hayes has been relatively private about his personal life, it is known that he values his family and close relationships. As of 2025, he has not publicly disclosed a romantic partner, leading us to believe he may be single or keeping any potential relationships under wraps. He continues to focus on his career and philanthropic endeavors.
Hayes and his ex-wife, the poet and professor Yona Harvey, have two children. He dated Padma Lakshmi in 2021. He lived for two decades in Pittsburgh before moving to New York, and in 2019, he lived in Greenwich Village.
Net Worth and Salary
Terrance Hayes’s estimated net worth in 2025 is around $2 million, primarily accumulated through his successful writing career, teaching positions, and various literary awards. His salary as a professor and through various speaking engagements contributes significantly to his overall wealth.
Career, Business and Investments
Hayes has had a prolific career as a poet and educator. He has taught at several prestigious institutions, including the University of Pittsburgh. In addition to his poetry, Hayes engages in various writing projects, including essays and criticism, broadening his influence in the literary world. He also invests in initiatives promoting literacy and education in underserved communities, showcasing his commitment to social change through literature.
Social Network
Terrance Hayes is active on several social media platforms, including Twitter and Instagram, where he shares insights into his life and work. His engagement with his audience allows fans and aspiring poets to connect with him on a personal level, offering a glimpse into his creative process and current projects.
Education
Hayes completed his undergraduate studies at Coker College in South Carolina before earning his MFA from the University of Pittsburgh. His educational background has profoundly influenced his poetic voice and teaching methods, enabling him to effectively mentor students and support emerging writers.
He was a professor of creative writing at Carnegie Mellon University until 2013, then taught in the English Department at the University of Pittsburgh. Currently, he teaches at New York University.
