born Tuskegee, Alabama 1943
married 1974 to husband Harvey Takara, a house painter
daughter Karla Brundage - also a poet
daughter Natasha
Tufts University, BA 1965
University of California, Berkeley, MA 1969
University of Hawai'i, PhD 1995
University of Hawai'i Regents' Medal for Excellence in Teaching, 1996
Fulbright experiences in two different countries -- France in 1965-66, and China 1995
father William H. Waddell IV (b. August 1908 Richmond Virginia) one of the oldest living Buffalo Soldiers, a veterinarian who worked with George Washington Carver at Tuskegee Institute after the war, and was the co-founder of the college's School of Veterinary Medicine
mother Lottie (d. 1989)
Assistant Professor in the Department of Ethnic Studies, College of Social Sciences, University of Hawai'i at Manoa
Recognized as a teacher, scholar, mentor, artist and community activist. Encourages students to see the urgency of communication skills, contacts with minorities, tolerance, research, commitment to principles of freedom and equality, and shared skills and resources as necessary to our survival on the planet. Brings an uncommon combination of passion and professionalism to her work. Serves as a valuable African-American role model and resource to the community.
"Elephants on a Blue Cloth" and "High Tide"
Oral Histories of African Americans -- University of Hawai'i website
"Hawai'i Boasts Ethnic Tapestry" Honolulu Advertiser
