Activist & Community Leader

Willie has served his Native American community in Robeson County as a mentor for young people and an inspiring, selfless artist. He composed the songs for the original soundtrack of the outdoor drama “Strike at the Wind!”, which has been produced in Robeson County since 1976. His album “Proud to be a Lumbee” (1979) has inspired thousands of children to be proud of their heritage, and Willie has performed in schools all over North Carolina educating children about Lumbee culture. He has won numerous honors and awards for his community service, including being named “Tarheel of the Week,” receiving the Hilda Honigman Composer’s Cup, and having one of his songs performed by the North Carolina Symphony. In 2006, he was honored by the Lumbee Tribe for his lifetime of achievements and service with an eaglefeather-gifting ceremony.