Family and colleagues remember Nikki Giovanni

Blacksburg, Virginia – Nearly a week has passed since the world said goodbye to the esteemed activist and poet Nikki Giovanni, yet her legacy continues to resonate deeply within the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Nikki Giovanni was celebrated globally for her literary contributions, her inspiring words, and as a recipient of numerous awards during her illustrious career… However, those who were nearest to her referred to her simply as “Nikki.”

“She was an incredibly fascinating and significant aunt, filled with unique treasures, whose house resembled a museum, and who extended an invitation for a cruise to Antarctica,” recalls Lauren Wilkerson, Giovanni’s second cousin. “She was truly a remarkable and vibrant individual.”

Wilkerson noted that Giovanni attended every family gathering, and her name frequently appeared in almost all of the literature classes during Wilkerson’s upbringing.

“It occurred each semester, without a doubt . . . “People found it hard to believe me, particularly when I referred to someone as a cousin. They couldn’t grasp how I had a ‘cousin’ who was not only much older than us but also held such significance,” Wilkerson explained.

On Saturday, Wilkerson participated in a gathering alongside others who explored and appreciated Giovanni’s poetry during a visitation held in her honor at McCoy Funeral Home.

“It’s truly special to be here with the Tech community and to connect with people from Blacksburg, gaining insight into what her daily life is like,” remarked Wilkerson. “It’s a heartfelt gesture to bid her farewell in this manner.”

She had the opportunity to listen to stories from Giovanni’s colleagues, who expressed similar feelings about how truly remarkable she was.

“No matter where she was, it seemed she brought happiness with her,” remarked Matthew Vollmer, a professor in the English Department at Virginia Tech. “She radiated joy, and it was impossible to be around her for even half a minute without bursting into laughter.”

For 18 years, Vollmer and Giovanni collaborated closely. He expressed that her legacy will continue to be honored on campus, even after her passing.

“While things may never return to how they were, we are committed to honoring her legacy and ensuring that the joy she brought continues,” he stated.