Every day this month, the Center for Black Educator Development, in partnership with Education Post and Philly’s 7th Ward, will highlight a Black Educator Hall of Famer.
But, don’t forget, e’ry month is Black History Month and February is just the Blackest. All year are ongoing opportunities to learn and teach and the colossal impact Black educators have had on society.
Today, our featured Black educator is Nikki Giovanni.
Nikki Giovanni, born Yolande Cornelia Giovanni Jr. on June 7, 1943, in Knoxville, Tennessee, is one of America’s most celebrated poets and literary voices. A prominent figure in the Black Arts Movement of the 1960s and 1970s, Giovanni’s work has consistently championed themes of racial identity, social justice, love, and resilience. Her ability to blend personal experiences with broader cultural and political commentary has made her a beloved and influential figure in contemporary literature.
Giovanni’s early life was shaped by her close-knit family and the racial tensions of the Jim Crow South. She grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, where her family moved to escape the overt racism of the South. Her grandmother, Louvenia Watson, played a significant role in nurturing her love for storytelling and literature. Giovanni attended Fisk University. She graduated in 1967 with honors, with a degree in history.
In the late 1960s, Giovanni emerged as a leading voice in the Black Arts Movement, with writing collections that included Black Feeling, Black Talk (1968), and Black Judgement (1968). These collections were unapologetically Black in their creation; they celebrated Black identity and called for social change within an anti-Black society. Giovanni’s writing was inspired by her personal experiences, addressing themes such as family, love, and loss, while engaging with broader social and political issues.
Giovanni’s teaching career took her to Rutgers University and Ohio State University. However, she’s known for her time at Virginia Tech University, where she was a distinguished professor of creative writing and literature. Her teaching career was dedicated to nurturing young minds, encouraging self-expression, and fostering a love for literature and social justice.
Giovanni’s approach to teaching reflected the same passion and authenticity that defined her poetry. She created an inclusive and engaging classroom environment, encouraging students to explore their identities and voices through writing. Her courses often emphasized the importance of storytelling as a tool for personal and societal transformation. As a mentor, she has inspired countless students to pursue careers in writing, education, and activism.
Giovanni is most known for her poetry, however; receiving numerous awards and commendations for her insightful and impactful words. Her poetry is iconic and equally so was her passion for supporting students finding their own voice. Giovanni’s life and career are a testament to the transformative power of words. Through her transformative words, her work continues to embrace young people throughout the world.
Nikki Giovanni; a member of the Black Educator Hall of Fame.
For more information on Nikki Giovanni, visit the following site.
