She has touched so many lives through her storytelling and now, her contributions to Alabama’s Black Belt are now enshrined in the Black Belt Hall of Fame located in Livingston.

Kathryn Tucker Windham, Selma author, photographer, folklorist and journalist, along with the late William James Edwards, were inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame in January.

Valerie Burnes, director of the Center for the Study of the Black Belt, said this year’s inductees have had a positive impact on the region, the state and the nation through their contributions.

“Windham exemplifies the achievements that the Black Belt Museum was established to honor,” Burnes said. “We are pleased to induct Edwards and Windham into the Black Belt Hall of Fame, because they have done amazing work to make life better for the citizens of the Black Belt.”

Becky Nichols, director of the Selma-Dallas County Public Library, has known Windham for years. She believes Windham is very deserving of the honor.

“She’s an inspiring character on so many levels,” Nichols said. “She’s offered me amazing life wisdom and she puts things into perspective. Even with all of the awards she’s won, nothing compares to the number of people she’s inspired through her storytelling.”

Nichols said Windham served on the library’s board for eight years and was influential in helping to establish its new facility. Next week marks the 16th anniversary of the library’s renovations.

“She witnesses the importance of education,” Nichols said. “She’s just multitalented on so many levels.”

In 2003, Windham was inducted into the Alabama Academy of Honor and named the Alabama Broadcasters Association Citizen of the Year. With more than 25 publications, she was awarded the Governor’s Award for the Arts in 1995.

Nichols said Windham continues to inspire her.

“She always told me, ‘Don’t let anything stand in your way or be an obstacle to pursuing your dreams,’” Nichols said.

The induction ceremony was held at the University of West Alabama Bell Conference Center Jan. 14.