--From the CEO of Soul Deep Publications, LLC & author of From the Belly of the Terrorized

(Excerpted from an e-mail message)

Ms. Rich---
You have been essential in my writing, helping me, nurturing me. Being another artist you have given me some words of wisdom that I will carry with me forever. Sometimes it's those people who enthusiastically encourage you to follow your passion who make all the difference in what you do. Thank you for being that voice.

Again,

I am honored to serve as Bowie State University's 1st Poet Laureate,
and I'm looking forward to collaborating with all of you during this venture.

Ms. Kimyana Johnson