Maya Angelou School Community Mourns the Death of Their Namesake, Dr. Maya Angelou
For Immediate Release
WASHINGTON, D.C., May 28, 2014 — We at Maya Angelou Public Charter Schools and the See Forever Foundation are saddened by the passing of our namesake, Dr. Maya Angelou this morning.
Dr. Angelou was not just a cultural icon and our namesake; she was unquestionably the strongest advocate and supporter of our school and the youth we serve. Her unwavering commitment and dedication to our students was nothing short of astonishing. She cheerfully gave of her time and talents whenever we called upon her and encouraged her circle of friends to do so as well. Dr. Angelou attended every annual fundraiser that has been held at the school until this year and even then, she made sure she joined us from her living room via satellite. The commitment she demonstrated to ensure the school’s success was unmatched.
Dr. Angelou has truly been an inspiration to our students and staff alike. Her influence and wisdom were far-reaching. She wasn’t just a citizen of North Carolina or even the United States, she was truly a citizen of the world.  Her message of tolerance, peace and love touched all of our hearts. The world is immeasurably better because of all that she gave, said Dr. Heather Wathington, Chief Executive Officer of the See Forever Foundation and Maya Angelou Schools. ââ¬ÅWe must continue to help our students realize the hope that lies within them — the hope that Dr. Angelou believed in for each of them.
When the Maya Angelou Schools opened its doors 17 years ago, a naming contest was held in which students were asked to write an essay about what the name of the school should be and why. Â The opening line of the winner’s essay stated that the school name should represent the power and importance of education. Â The author went on to explain the many hardships and challenges that Dr. Angelou faced in her early life, but not unlike Maya scholars, she used hard work and education to create a new future for herself.
We offer our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to Dr. Angelou’s family, colleagues and friends. The world mourns her loss today, commented David Domenici, Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board.
A restricted fund will be set up in response to the many inquiries and outpouring of support given to the schools. For more information about Maya Angelou Schools and the See Forever Foundation and to make a contribution, visit the website at:Â www.seeforever.org
Contact: Leah Lamb
Chief Development Officer
See Forever Foundation
202-797-8250, ext. 1005
llamb@seeforever.org