Letter to George Sullivan from Nikki Giovanni

Access and use

Location of collection:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Special Collections, University Libraries (0434)
Newman Library
Virginia Tech
P.O. Box 90001
560 Drillfield Drive
Blacksburg, VA 24062-9001
Contact for questions and access:
Phone: (540) 231-6308
Fax: (540) 231-3694
Restrictions:

The collection is open for research.

Terms of access:

Suggested Note:

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Please contact Special Collections and University Archives (specref@vt.edu or 540-231-6308) if you need assistance with forms or to submit a completed form.

Preferred citation:

Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [identification of item], [box], [folder], [collection title, collection dates, Ms####-### or RG#/#], Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.

Summary

Extent:
0.1 Cubic Feet 1 folder
Creator:
Giovanni, Nikki
Abstract:
This collection contains a two page typed letter from Nikki Giovanni to George Sullivan.
Language:
The materials in this collection are in English.
Preferred citation:

Researchers wishing to cite this collection should include the following information: [identification of item], [box], [folder], [collection title, collection dates, Ms####-### or RG#/#], Special Collections and University Archives, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Va.

Background

Scope and content:

This collection contains a two-page letter that was sent to George Sullivan (1927-) by Nikki Giovanni (1943-2024). In the letter, Giovanni identifies problems in American society and ultimately identifies education as the key to an "enlightened populace."

Biographical / historical:

Nikki Giovanni (1943-2024) was an internationally renowned poet, scholar, professor and social justice activist. She served as a professor of English and poetry at Virginia Tech from 1987-2022, and was awarded the title of University Distinguished Professor in 1999. George Sullivan (1927-) is an award-winning nonfiction author with a specialty in photography and photography history.

Acquisition information:
This collection was purchased by Special Collections and University Archives in 2025.
Processing information:

The processing, arrangement, and description of the Letter to George Sullivan from Nikki Giovanni was completed in June 2025.