Dianne Kirksey facts for kids
Dianne Kirksey (also known as Dianne Kirksey-Floyd) was an amazing African-American filmmaker, writer, producer, and actress. She lived in New York City. Dianne was also an activist and a teacher. Her work in film and theater earned many awards. In 1985, she was even given an honorary rank in the Alabama State Militia for her leadership.
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Dianne Kirksey's Early Life
Dianne Kirksey was born in Eutaw, Alabama, USA. Her father, Wiley Kirksey, was a school superintendent. Her mother, Gladys Kirksey, was also an educator. As a child, Dianne loved being in local plays.
During the Civil Rights Movement, Dianne was a student leader. She led marches and protests in Greene County. These actions supported the Voters' Rights Act. This act helped make sure everyone had the right to vote. She finished Carver High School in 1967.
Education and Achievements
Dianne started college at the University of Alabama in 1967. She made history as a freshman. She was the first Black student named "Bama Belle." She was also the first Black member of the homecoming court.
Dianne helped start the UA African American Association. This group is now called the Black Student Union. She was also the first Black woman to be an officer for the Associated Women's Students. She led a workshop about racism at a university conference. Dianne graduated in 1973 with degrees in Theater and English.
After college, the university honored her many times. They recognized her work for racial and gender equality. AL.com listed her as one of the most important Black alumni. In 2018, she was one of twenty "Female Trailblazers." This celebration marked 125 years of women attending the university.
Dianne Kirksey's Career
Since 1973, Dianne Kirksey worked in education, film, television, and theater. She was a teacher, director, and actress. She studied filmmaking at New York University.
She produced a short film called Sweet Dreams, Momma. She also made a short documentary, Bama's Black Babies Are Dying. Dianne was working on new TV and film projects too.
As an actress, she played Cheryl in a play called Urban Transitions: Loose Blossoms. She acted alongside Chadwick Boseman in this play. Dianne also had roles in TV shows like Doctors and One Life to Live. She was in films like Rich Kids and The Marva Collins Story. In The Marva Collins Story, she acted with famous stars like Morgan Freeman and Cicely Tyson.
Dianne also served on New York City's Community Board 8. She was part of the Education Committee for two terms.
Teaching Career
Dianne taught third and fifth grades at PS 334. She taught there from 2006 to 2019.
Awards and Honors
Dianne Kirksey received many awards for her work:
- Trailblazer, University of Alabama 1893 Jubilee Dinner, 2018
- Finalist, New York Television Festival Pitch Competition, 2017
- Honoree, Blackboard Awards, 2011
- Opening Doors, University of Alabama, 2003
- Fellow, Korea Institute, 2002
- Fellow, China Institute, 2001
- Invitee, Cannes Film Festival, 1987
- Honorary Lieutenant Colonel, Alabama State Militia, 1985
Death
Dianne Kirksey passed away in New York on September 1, 2020.
