Nichelle Nichols, American actress
Nichelle Nichols (born Grace Dell Nichols; December 28, 1932) is an American actress and singer best known for her portrayal of Nyota Uhura in Star Trek: The Original Series, and its film sequels. Nichols' portrayal of Uhura was ground-breaking for African American female characters on American television. From 1977 to 2015, Nichols volunteered her time to promote NASA's programs, and to recruit diverse astronauts, including women and ethnic minorities.