Originally from Southern California, Allan Johnston earned his M.A. in Creative Writing and his Ph.D. in English from the University of California, Davis. His poems have appeared in over sixty journals, including Poetry, Poetry East, Rattle, and Rhino. He is the author of one full-length poetry collection (Tasks of Survival, 1996) and three chapbooks (Northport, 2010; Departures, 2013; Contingencies, 2015). His new collection, In a Window, is forthcoming from Shanti Arts. 

First Prize, Poetry, Outrider Press Literary Anthology contest, 2010.

Nominated for Pushcart Prize, 2009, 2016.

Finalist, Blue Light Press Poetry Chapbook Competition, 2008.

Honorable Mention, Two Review Poetry Contest, 2008.

Finalist, Blue Light Press Poetry Manuscript Competition, 2007.

Honorable Mention, Anabiosis Press Poetry Chapbook competition, 2006.

Judge, Illinois Emerging Writers Poetry Competition, Illinois State Library, Illinois Secretary of State, 2005-2007.

Finalist, New Letters Literary Award in Poetry, 2001.

Judge, Outrider Press Poetry Contest, 2001.

Illinois Arts Council Fellowship in Poetry, 1999.