THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, June 9, 1994 TAG: 9406070129
SECTION: NORFOLK COMPASS PAGE: 03 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: Long
DATELINE: 940609 LENGTH:
Kiah, who has taught at Norfolk State for 24 years, decided she wanted to teach when she was just 5 years old.
{REST} As a professor, Kiah incorporates many of her own travel experiences in her classrooms. She has traveled extensively in Africa and has brought back artifacts to share with her students and has taught them greetings in Swahili.
In her American Folklore and Literature class, which focuses on the traditional literature of the Native Americans and African-Americans, she stresses the importance of African culture to the genre.
Name: Rosalie Black Kiah
Nickname: Rosie (used only by family members and childhood friends).
What brought you to Norfolk: I came to Norfolk to teach at Norfolk State University.
Birthplace: Chester, Pa.
Birthdate: Dec. 5
Occupation: Professor of English
Marital status: Single
Children: None
Favorite book: As a history buff, I especially enjoy reading accounts of specific aspects of the African-American experience. More specifically, I enjoy reading autobiographies, biographies and slave narratives. Perhaps my favorite book, aside from his autobiography, would be the biography of the great African-American abolitionist, orator and writer Frederick Douglass. William S. McFeely has written one of my favorites, titled ``Frederick Douglas.''
Last book read: ``Having Our Say; The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years'' by Sarah and A. Elizabeth Delany. This is a super account of two women who have lived history.
Favorite movie: ``Glory''
Favorite magazine: Essence.
If you could trade places for just one day with anyone in the world, who would it be and why? Actually, if I could have two days, I would trade places with President Nelson Mandela and Sen. Carol Moseley Braun. Just imagine being caught up in the exhilaration that Mr. Mandela must be experiencing after breaking down this major, major obstacle. I would like to spend one day basking in this triumph and being a part of history taking place. Trading places with Senator Moseley Braun for one day would be bustling with activity. However to be able to build coalitions and form political alliances to get things done would be well worth the trade. These choices in no way reflect my interest in public office. I am content watching others ``Go for it.''
Biggest accomplishment: I would have to say to date it would be being nominated by my departmental evaluation committee for ``Teacher of the Year'' and subsequently going on to receive the title for the university.
Most embarrassing moment: This occurred several years ago on one of my earlier trips to Africa. I was having dinner with a Senegalese family and we were eating by hand in the traditional manner, from the same huge platter of various meats and vegetables. I am left handed and I began eating without remembering that this hand is not welcomed to sue for eating in many cultures. To my dismay and embarrassment, no one ate any of the offerings that I had sampled with the left hand. Since that time, I have been more conscious of which hand I use when eating, pointing or handing things to people when I visit the continent.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I deliberated over this question for quite a while and I concluded that I just like everything about me just as it is.
Perfect way to spend the day: After all the compositions have been read and the grades have been recorded, I could have a meal, sit in my rocker with a steaming cup of herbal tea and peruse back issues of journals and magazines. I would probably watch my favorite television game show, ``Jeopardy'' or CNN Headline News and depending on the time, turn in for the night.
Favorite vacation spot: Any of the countries in West, North or East Africa. I might even try down South now that things look promising.
Pet peeve: I am turned off by people who whine and bellyache.
First job: I have been working since seventh grade and I cannot for the life of me remember what was my first job.
Worst job: Perhaps this had to be my most dangerous job as well. I was a sophomore in college and I was living and working in Atlantic City, N.J. The job I held was a night chambermaid in a hotel off from the boardwalk. My shift was from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. So I had to prepare the rooms for late check-outs and do that kind of general housekeeping. I encountered some weirdos in the process. My mother insisted that I quit that job within two weeks after it began.
Hobbies: I collect owls. I was once told by a neighbor that seven owls in the house would bring good luck. So whenever I travel, I make sure I purchase an owl. I have certainly exceeded the seven.
Favorite restaurant: ``Chez Kiah,'' I rarely eat out.
What do you like most about Norfolk? I like the diversity and variety that the city has to offer.
What do you like least about Norfolk? I am still trying to find a response to that one because I am still here.
by CNB