25th Anniversary "In the Tradition..."
National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference
November 14 – 18, 2007
Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel
Atlanta, Georgia
CIRCLE OF ELDERS HONOREES
Eleanor Randall Anderson, a writer and producer of plays for and about children, founded the All Stars Theater for her productions. In 2001, she joined the Detroit Association of Black Storytellers and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. She often tells stories from a nautical view and relates them to how enslaved African Americans escaped on the underground railroad.
Andrea Fain, Vice President of ASE: The Chicago Association of Black Storytellers, has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to Black Storytelling. She has consistently worked to share her knowledge with others. Much of ASE’s growth is due to her tireless efforts. She is a warrior for the cause of Black Storytelling. She has rarely misses a meeting and encourages ASE members to reach their ”highest selves” by setting a strong example.
June McAbee, affectionately known as Nanna, is a very active member and contributor to the Griots Circle of Maryland, the National Association of Black Storytellers and the Washington Performing Arts Society. In 1992, June with colleague Laura Vault created a storytelling show entitled Nanna’s Corner. This program was the first and only show of its kind to be air for a majority of Montgomery County, MD public schools.
Deacon Alfred Mitchell was an active member of Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia. Deacon Mitchell is a conductor of storytelling workshops around the country. Deacon’s stories are always filled with humor and insight. As a deacon in the Roman Catholic Church he uses stories in my ministry of preaching, teaching and reaching out to others.
Kathryn Morgan, a powerful storyteller and performer, is currently Sarah Lawrence Lightfoot Emerita Professor in History and Folklore at Swarthmore College. Her book, Children of Strangers, the first work of African American family folklore by a folklorist, has been translated into Portuguese. She recently returned from touring Brazil.
Joan Stevenson, a lifetime member of NABS and the Griots’ Circle of Maryland and a NABS Board member, has served as NABS treasurer and has worked tirelessly for many years. The time, dedication, money and service she has given to NABS is immeasurable. Recently, she purchased a chair in the International Storytelling Center in Jonesborough, Tennessee, for our beloved co-founder Linda Goss.
