Ph.D Sylvia Hawkins Little
Illumination: Lewis Henry Latimer [a bio poem]. Latimer, born in 1884 to runaway slaves, had very little formal education, yet during his lifetime he obtained numerous patents; and was renown worldwide. for his electrical lightning expertise.Award winning Children’s Book author, Dr. Little’s love of “Black History” and “poetry” was her motivation for writing the “THANK A BLACK MAN SERIES”. A tribute to her father and daughter, Darnell H. Hawkins, Sr. and Lisa Little, who used their time, talent and energies to make a difference for others, the series honors “Black Difference’s Makers”—Black men and women who through the years used their ingenuity, time and energies to make life better for everyone. Many times, they didn’t receive credit for their efforts. Dr. Little holds a Doctorate of Philosophy and Masters of Education from The University of Texas at Austin and a Bachelor of Science from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. Currently an independent education consultant, Dr. Little has been teacher, principal and school district assistant superintendent. Like many historians, she believes “Black History” is a subject that can interest both black and non-black youth. Both groups can learn about “Blacks” contributions to the development of civilization and history and that neither race, religion, socio-economic status, nor family background hampers their ability to succeed. Black youth can learn about people, like themselves, who have made a difference in the quality of life for others 3
