By Philip Walzer

Nakia Madry-Smith, the director of Old Dominion University's Peninsula Center and a member of Pharrell Williams' Voices of Fire choir, is appearing twice on national television this week.

Voices of Fire performed on ABC's Good Morning America 3 (GMA3) Friday afternoon and will sing on BET's Annual Super Bowl Gospel Celebration at 8 p.m. Saturday.

A year ago, Madry-Smith sang with Voices of Fire on two late-night TV shows - "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" and "The Late Show With Stephen Colbert." Netflix last year released "Voices of Fire," a documentary about the choir that has been nominated for an NAACP Image Award.

Madry-Smith received her M.B.A. from Old Dominion in 2005.

"In a year that has been filled with tragedy and darkness, I'm grateful for the light," she said Friday. "I had no idea where this road would lead when I hesitantly and somewhat begrudgingly auditioned in 2019, but I continue to remain thankful and humbled by this opportunity!"

Madry-Smith also sings in two local groups, The Fuzz Band and Rocky 7. "We're on lockdown with the majority of our musical community, but I believe that closed doors bring new opportunities so be on the lookout for new music in 2021!"

Related News Stories

“Insurrection: The Critical Reflection Forums” Will Focus on the Capitol Attack

The three-event series, sponsored by the Department of Communication and Theatre Arts, is scheduled to begin Feb. 1. (More)

Black History Month at ODU will Feature a Host of Virtual Events

“A Call to Action: What’s Next? Part 2” kicks things off on Feb. 2. (More)

Everyday Things Provide Inspiration for Norfolk Artist’s Exhibit at Gordon Galleries

“Bikes, Brands, Words, and Wheels” by Andy Harris is on display until Feb. 21. (More)