Author, Artist, Poet, Educator and a Member of the Connor Literary Agency, Nichole L. Shields gained a first-class reputation as Chicago's own African-American Literary agent. She was literally, a "Literary Liaison". As a member of the Connor Team, Nichole was responsible for selecting material ready for publication. As a member of the arts and literary community, she would help anyone with anything. All in the name of " art & literature", this plethora of talent would arrive at your side with what appeared to be an infinite warehouse of information; handling any and every aspect of your art & literature related event. One thing is for sure, whether she was utilized as a Public Relations Specialist; Workshop, Seminar & Conference Coordinator; Literary historian or Self-Publishing Guru. If Nichole didn't know, no one did.
Nichole was truly a poet's paradise. Possessing a vast knowledge on the technical elements of poetry, poets and authors of all nationalities and genres and, of course, all aspects of general and self-publishing. It should come as no surprise that she was the "permission granter" for works by the mother of Black poetry, the late Gwendolyn Brooks. Her book of poetry " One Less Road to Travel" shared historical, relational and emotional dilemmas that she experienced, witnessed or was simply moved, by.
As a friend, or just a person she encountered; Nichole was a " What can I do to help?" person. She went out of her way to assist her friends or volunteer at various events. She often provided service for causes she deemed important to herself and her community. She was a lover of learning and education. And, a staunch supporter of youth and young adults . Those who knew her will always cherish her friendship.
Now, in her honor, Power of the Tongue establishes the Nichole L. Shields Educational Scholarship. The recipient of this $500.00 award will have demonstrated characteristics very similar to Nichole in the following areas: love for education and the arts, respect for self & others, service-minded and a strong sense of community values.
Students must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Write a 1,000 word essay describing your affiliation with the arts, demonstrating your financial need, and detailing your contribution of at least 20 hours of volunteer service ( this shall not include mandatory community or service learning hours applied toward graduation)financial need
- Submit proof of high-school graduation as of July 1, 2011 from an accredited high school or GED administering institution and proof of enrollment in post-high school institution.
- Submit three letters of recommendation in which the following are demonstrated: 1) length of time in knowing the applicant 2) under what circumstances have you known the applicant 3) an evaluation on the applicant's respect for themselves/ others and overall mannerism, how the applicant will benefit from this scholarship and the likeness of advancement and college completion.
Entries must be postmarked by July 10, 2011.
Winners will be notified by August 10, 2011.
Receive detailed submission and mailing instructions by contacting
Subject Line should read " Nichole L. Shields Scholarship"
