Growing up in the 80's, my first introduction to Star Trek was the Original Series movies, starting with "Star Trek: The Motion Picture". I guess that really could be considered the late, late 70's, but I digress. One of my fondest memories, from that time, was seeing Nichelle Nichols for the first time as Lt. Uhura. She was one of the very first women I'd seen in any kind of authoritative role other than my mother. From then on out, Nichelle & Uhura have been an influence on my life and how I see and perceive women & the world. Interestingly enough, Nichelle saw Star Trek as a way to further her career on Broadway. She had no idea of the ride she was in for, or how she would help shape the 20th century and beyond.

In an interview with Desertnews.com, Nichelle recalls her early days in Trek and how she thought the show would be a "nice adjunct to my résumé."CONTINUE READING >>