Maya Angelou is a woman that carries may titles from writer, poet, speaker to national treasure and legendary author. However, one title I am proud to call her, is role model. As an African American woman, Angelou was someone I looked up to that faced adversity and didn't have a problem telling her story.

When I heard that she passed, I felt a wave of sadness because I knew I wouldn't hear that distinctive voice anymore. During my last year of college at Penn State University, I had the privilege of seeing her in person during the "Distinguished Speaker Series" at Eisenhower Auditorium on Tuesday, March 23, 2010. 

At the beginning of the forum, Angelou began with this statement. "I was a writer who thought I could teach, but I'm really a teacher who could write. I know you didn't expect me to preach and I didn't bring a Bible but I am here to say a few things and I mean to say them."

Sitting in the crowded auditorium, I remember Angelou giving words of wisdom. I thought how lucky we are to have someone like her, someone to tell the truth and offer comfort, especially for those who are often surrounded by negativity and discrimination. And by those, I mean women of color. My mother, Judy, immigrated from the Caribbean (Trinidad and Tobago) and become a naturalized citizen. During my childhood,  I witnessed how people treated her differently because of her accent and skin color, they would talk to her like she couldn't understand English. She even went through prejudice at her job and would come home frustrated and upset. 

One of Angelou's most recognized poems, "Phenomenal Woman" resonated with me because of the discrimination my mother endured. The poem teaches women to be proud of who they are and at times, were my "healing" words when I felt hurt. 

I was first introduced to Angelou in middle school when my fifth-grade teacher allowed the class to watch the film version of "I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings," after reading the book. At that age, I don't think I fully understood how powerful the book and movie was but reading and watching what she endured, struck a chord with me, especially when she eventually learned to love herself. 

Maya Angelou will never be forgotten, her words will continue to influence others, however, it is our duty to make sure the next generation, especially women of color, know how "Phenomenal" they are.