Maya Lin

Maya Lin is a talented artist and architect. She is probably most well known for designing the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington D.C. When this was unveiled it was pretty controversial because of it's placement and in that it was significantly different from any of the other monuments or memorials in D.C. Having been to the Vietnam Wall, it is a very moving place. I can only imagine how my parents felt who lived during that time (Dad was in the military but didn't go to Vietnam). I've written to Ms. Lin at least a couple of times and I finally got a response. You can tell the letter took a while because it is addressed to my fifth graders, now I teach 7th grade. I think her words still resonate, even with older students.

In her letter she says, "To the fifth grade students of Manor Hill. I always loved school and feel that my studies have helped me so much in all my work. Find a subject that really interest you and go beyond what school required - it will help you and hopefully school will be something you really enjoy. Maya Lin"

For more information about Maya Lin you can visit her website at: http://www.mayalin.com/