NORFOLK, Va. – World-renowned poet, activist and former Virginia Tech professor Nikki Giovanni is headlining a Black History Month scholarship celebration at the Attucks Theater in Norfolk on Saturday, February 24, 2024.
The Black History Month & Scholarship Celebration is hosted by The Chesapeake P.E.A.R.L.S., Incorporated and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Omicron Pi Omega Chapter.
“It just means a lot to our organization, and really to the community, to be able to bring her here,” said Melinda Gainer, the CEO of The Chesapeake P.E.A.R.L.S., Incorporated, and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Omicron Pi Omega Chapter.
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Gainer said during the 2024 Black History Month and Scholarship Celebration, Giovanni will share her timeless poetry and discuss her legendary career. The event will also feature a conversation with Giovanni and News 3 Anchor Jessica Larche, who is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Gamma Delta Omega Chapter.
“I am incredibly humbled and excited to have a conversation with such an iconic woman,” said Larche. “Nikki Giovanni is a pivotal figure in the fabric of our history.”
The Black History Month & Scholarship Celebration will also feature performances by the Norfolk State University Jazz Ensemble, Norfolk-based dance studio Dance Dimensions, and local vocalist Ashley Felder. Several graduating seniors will receive college scholarships during the event.
“We are going to be awarding seven scholarships to seven deserving students from Chesapeake public high schools,” said LaToya Sivells, the co-chair of the event.
Proceeds from this year’s program will be used to support the organization's community service mission and provide deserving Hampton Roads students with financial assistance to attend college.
Tickets are $80 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or the Scope Box Office. For more information about the event, visit the SevenVenues website.
