UNCF Remembers the Life and Legacy of Beloved Poet and Activist Nikki Giovanni

We are deeply saddened about the recent passing of Nikki Giovanni, one of the world’s greatest poets and advocates for humanity.

“Nikki Giovanni was an extraordinary poet, author and human being whose loss creates an immense gap in all of our hearts and minds,” said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO, UNCF (United Negro College Fund). “Her influential contributions to the world of literature and her passionate advocacy have profoundly impacted countless lives, inspiring individuals with her powerful words and insightful perspectives to achieve greater heights in their life journey.”

Known for her unapologetic celebration of Black life, Giovanni became a defining voice of the Black Arts Movement in the late 1960s and a literary icon celebrated for her sharp, conversational style.

In 2007, UNCF honored Giovanni with our National Alumni Council’s Legacy Award, which is presented to an individual who has a longstanding record of encouraging students or colleagues to realize their full potential. Previous Legacy Award honorees include Tom Joyner, Congressman John Lewis, Dr. Calvin Mackie, Roland Martin, Soledad O’Brien, Lou Rawls, Lionel Richie, Desiree Rogers, Carolyn House Stewart and Susan Taylor.

Her debut collection, Black Feeling, Black Talk (1968), captured the fire of the Civil Rights Movement. Poems like “Ego-Tripping,” “Knoxville, Tennessee,” and “Nikki-Rosa” became classics, celebrating Black pride and resilience.

A prolific writer, she authored more than 25 books, including poetry collections, essays and works for children, which solidified her reputation as one of America’s most influential writers. Giovanni’s other works include Cotton Candy on a Rainy Day, Love Poems and her children’s book Rosa, which won a Caldecott Honor.

As we reflect on Giovanni’s remarkable legacy, our thoughts and prayers are with her family. May her spirit continue to resonate and inspire generations to come.