Weidner Center, friends recall Angelou’s appearance

Staff at the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts were reflecting Wednesday (May 28) on the life and legacy of poet and activist Maya Angelou, recalling her 2005 appearance at the venue.

Angelou was the final speaker in the 2004-05 LifeLine speaker series, addressing audiences in July 2005. She mostly read her poetry and spoke some about her life, said Weidner Center Executive Director Kate Green.

“When she met with each of the women supporters of the speaker series, she made a point to talk to each directly, and engage each one in conversation,” said Green, who did not meet Angelou but collected memories from her staff. “She was very charming and gracious — she spent time with each one.”

Angelou also offered advice for posing for photos when asked about her very polished, put-together look.

“Sit up straight, lean forward, hold your head high,” she told the women. “And put your chin up just before the shutter click.”

Photo at top of post — Front row (from left to right) Carol Bush, Sherry Schuldes, Maya Angelou, Sharon Lutsey, Billie Kress, Carla Peterson; (back row) Bob Bush, Guest of Sherry Schuldes, Guest of Sharon Lutsey, Guest of Billie Kress, Ellsworth Peterson