Dr. Susan J. Wallace was a well-known Bahamian educator, author, poet, and cultural advocate whose work greatly contributed to literacy and literary culture in The Bahamas. Born in West End, Grand Bahama, and raised partly in Nassau, Wallace dedicated much of her life to education, writing, and community service. Throughout her career, she published more than twelve books, including collections of plays, poetry, and prose that depicted Bahamian life, culture, and Christian values. Besides her literary work, she founded Access Ministries International for Healing and Wholeness and Access Bible College, organizations that offered educational and spiritual training both locally and internationally. The recipient of several awards, her influence went beyond the classroom, as she became widely known as an author, counselor, and teacher whose work motivated generations of Bahamians. 

Wallace’s contributions to literacy in The Bahamas are evident in both her writings and her advocacy for reading and cultural expression. Through accessible storytelling, plays, and literary collections like Back Home: A Collection of Bahamian Plays, Poetry & Prose, she documented everyday Bahamian experiences and promoted the use of literature as a tool for cultural identity and education. Her works were frequently utilized in educational and cultural settings, encouraging students and readers to engage with Bahamian narratives and language. As an educator and published author, Wallace played a vital role in fostering local literary talent and expanding opportunities for Bahamian storytelling, thereby strengthening the nation’s literary heritage and supporting broader literacy development.

Nabi Picturebooks continues the legacy of this iconic individual with the Dr. Susan J. Wallace Pathway Award. The recipient of this prestigious award will receive a monetary donation to encourage the continued growth and development of students pursuing the Arts at the primary school level.