The world is left a little emptier today with the passing of Dr. Maya Angelou. Born Marguerite Annie Johnson in St. Louis, Missouri in 1928, she grew up to become a renowned poet, author, and civil rights activist. She published seven autobiographies, the most famous being I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (1969), and more than 30 best-selling books of poetry. Angelou's 1971 book of poetry Just Give Me a Cool Drink of Water 'fore I Die won an NAACP Image Award. Dr. Angelou held a number of honorary degrees in the areas of literature and the humanities and was awarded a Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, by President Barack Obama in 2011. Her passion also extended to the stage and she worked a lifetime in acting, film, directing, and produced over 28 plays, movies, and lectures. She was nominated for a Tony Award in 1973 for her role in the play Look Away and wrote, co-directed, and co-starred in 1972’s Georgia, Georgia. Though a life spent, Angelou made an indelible imprint in this world. Leaving behind a canon of work, an enduring legacy of activism, and several autobiography, Dr. Maya Angelou passed away in her sleep at her home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina at the age of 86. She will be remembered and mourned by people of all ages and backgrounds.