In 1982 the global Renaissance woman, Dr. Maya Angelou, settled in Winston-Salem. This world renowned poet, educator, historian, best-selling author, actress, playwright, civil-rights activist, producer and director swiftly became a part on the cultural landscape lending her name and support to many causes in the city including the National Black Theatre Festival, The Amani Foundation, the Juneteenth Celebration, conversations at churches and forums, readings and book signings and numerous more events. Dr. Angelou collaborated with three leading organizations in the city to address health disparities, all of whom have named centers in her honor – The Maya Angelou Center for Health Equity Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, The Maya Angelou National Institute for the Improvement of Child and Family Education at Winston-Salem State University and the Maya Angelou Center for Women’s Health and Wellness at Forsyth Medical Center. Dr. Angelou was appointed the First Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University, a lifetime appointment since 1981. (Photograph by Dwight Carter, Courtesy of Dr. Maya Angelou)