The Guilford College community, in conjunction with Black History Month, will welcome Nikki Giovanni at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 16, in Dana Auditorium. Giovanni is a renowned essayist and poet — having produced over 20 books of poetry — as well as being a well-known national speaker. Giovanni will present some of her material and a lecture, all of which will be followed by a book-signing. This event is sponsored by Union. Leslie Mountcastle, staff advisor for Union, said, “It’s a great opportunity: exposure to a well-known poet, who is relatively local, and to original literature … read by the writer. People should take advantage of it.”

Dawn Watkins, associate dean of student life for community activities, feels Giovanni’s presentation will spark dialogue in the campus community. “She is somebody,” Watkins said, “that a lot of students read and is one of those speakers for us that will draw a lot of student interest. We are expecting more students than seats.”

Guilford senior Stephanie Melesky will be there. “I am even skipping bowling. My whole team is,” Melesky said. “I’m really stoked about having the opportunity to hear her speak because I have been reading her poetry for a while and recently started reading her children’s books, and I’d like to learn more about her creative mind.”
Come to Dana Auditorium this Friday to experience Giovanni’s presentation.