The African American Heritage House (AAHH) at Chautauqua today announced the appointment of New York Times bestselling author, Emmy®-winning producer and founder of the literary nonprofit One Word at a Time, Kwame Alexander, as its 2026 inaugural Distinguished Fellow.

AAHH is a nonprofit committed to strengthening Chautauqua Institution by encouraging and welcoming diversity, fostering honest conversations and adding new voices to the programmatic mix. Sean Hawkins was also named director of the AAHH.

“Erroll Davis’ vision is for the AAHH to become a cultural center for building a community accessible to all through the eyes of the African American experience,” said Ted First. “The board gave instantaneous, wholehearted and enthusiastic approval for this appointment, as we believe that Kwame will bring another dimension to the house and our vision.”

Alexander and Hawkins invite everyone to gather for a season of art, ideas and fellowship in 2026. Programming will include rotating art exhibits, outdoor music performances, movie nights, convivial dinner parties, intimate conversations with artists and changemakers, and thought-provoking talks exploring history, culture and the future. From informal walk-throughs to classes, film discussions, book salons, live music and community celebrations, the program centers Black creativity and experience while welcoming all communities — including veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people of all faith traditions — to listen, learn and connect.

“I could not be more delighted that Kwame will be partnering with the AAHH, building on his prior work on behalf of the Institution as he deepens his impact through curation and conversation. Kwame’s presence will lift the missions of both the AAHH and Chautauqua as we work together to diversify, grow and nurture our community,” said Deborah Sunya Moore, senior vice president and chief program officer at Chautauqua Institution.

Kwame Alexander brings his extensive portfolio of involvement in literacy, television, entrepreneurship and thought leadership to this Fellowship. He was previously the Michael I. Rudell Artistic Director of Literary Arts and Inaugural Writer-in-Residence at the Chautauqua Institution and has demonstrated a strong commitment to building community through literature and the arts within the institution and the surrounding community.

“Our goal, as set forth by the founders and the Board, is to continue the legacy of making Chautauqua a more vibrant community, helping African Americans feel more welcome at CHQ, and fostering a sense of community engagement and empowerment, through the arts and humanities. Won’t you come celebrate with us lakeside for inspiration, dialogue, and joy—week after week, all summer long,” said Kwame Alexander.

About AAHH

AAHH is a nonprofit organization committed to making Chautauqua a more vibrant community, to help African Americans feel more welcome at CHQ and to facilitate conversations with African Americans to help create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive environment. For more information about the African American Heritage House at Chautauqua and its programs, visit aaheritagehouse.org.