A 1967 Magna Cum Laude graduate of Fisk University, Nikki Giovanni is an accomplished poet, writer, activist, and educator.  The multi-talented Giovanni started her own publishing company at the age of twenty-seven.  Over the past thirty years, she has made significant contributions to the publishing industry.  She has written books for children as well as adults, volumes of poetry, and essay collections.  This versatile poet has been the recipient of the NAACP Image Award on two occasions in recognition of her superior work. Her 1998 performance at the award show with dancer and Broadway star, Savion Glover was sensational. A University Distinguished Professor at Virginia Tech since 1987, Giovanni continues to inspire generations of poetry lovers.