Phylicia and Debbie’s mom is a Pulitzer Prize nominee.
Vivian Ayers Allen, the remarkable mother of Phylicia Rashad and Debbie Allen, led a life rich with intellectual and artistic achievements. She graduated from the historic Brainerd Institute in Chester, South Carolina, in 1939, and continued her education at Barber-Scotia College and Bennett College. At Bennett, she pursued studies in classical Greek and Mayan culture, reflecting her profound interest in diverse and complex subjects. Her academic excellence was further recognized with honorary doctorates from Bennett College and Wilberforce University, underscoring her significant contributions to education and scholarship.
Upon moving to Houston, Vivian Ayers Allen embarked on a distinguished literary career. Her debut collection of poems, *Spice of Dawns*, was published in 1952 and earned her a nomination for the Pulitzer Prize. This accolade marked a significant milestone in her career, highlighting her talent and the impact of her literary work.
Vivian’s subsequent collection, *Hawk*, published in 1957, was a notable achievement. Described as “an allegory of freedom made analogous to space flight,” this collection was released just weeks before the Soviet Union launched Sputnik I, symbolizing a time of great scientific and cultural change. *Hawk* garnered considerable recognition, including being celebrated by NASA. Enlarged reproductions of her writings from this collection are exhibited at the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, demonstrating the enduring relevance and admiration for her work.
In addition to her literary accomplishments, Vivian Ayers Allen’s poetry has continued to resonate through the years. Her poem “On Status” was performed by her daughters, Phylicia and Debbie, further celebrating her artistic legacy. The influence of her work extended into contemporary culture when Houston-born artist Solange sampled “On Status” for her 2019 album *When I Get Home*. This inclusion not only reflects the lasting impact of Vivian’s poetry but also connects her creative contributions to modern artistic expressions.
Vivian Ayers Allen’s life and work exemplify a blend of scholarly pursuit, artistic achievement, and familial influence, making her a lasting inspiration in the worlds of literature, education, and the arts.