Mervelle A. Sage (Queen V) was born and raised on the beautiful island of St. Croix U. S. Virgin Islands and currently resides in Florida with her son Ellijah A. Hermitt. Throughout her childhood this creative spirit has always been involved with the arts, especially dance, choir, and acting. She was an avid reader, but it was not until Junior High School that she began writing. For Mervelle it was an outlet, a way to express herself privately. It was not until after winning a black history month contest in high school that she discovered her passion and became known among her peers for writing poetry and short stories. Queen V is a free spirit who believes that empowering minds as a community through creative works such as poetry and the arts is the key to success and the key to producing productive citizens. In her role as an educator, she works hard to infuse her talents into the curriculum to awaken the creative energies of her students. She is a literacy coach who works with teachers to find creative solutions, infuse literacy across the curriculum, and meet the needs of students for success. When you read her poetry and listen to her spoken word pieces you are experiencing a true representation of who she is, what she cares about, her eclectic energy, and zest for life.

Mervelle’s debut book, Shores of a Cinnamon Soul, released June 2007, is an artistic representation of her essence. She since then has published five other books: Hanging with Uncle Eddie (Children’s Book), Carambola (Adult poetry), Artoro Sleeps (Children’s Book), The Passion and Purpose Anthology: 21 Inspiring Stories of Women from the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Carambola Passion (Adult poetry). All books are available on www.vellespoccasion.com.  As the president of Velle’s Poccasions, you can be blessed with original poetry, books, and gifts made “For any Occasion.” Mervelle is a firm believer that only through positive connections and by giving back to the community her life will be full circle. She is a strong advocate for lifelong learning. Her interests focus on teacher effectiveness, mentorship, instructional leadership, advocacy, wellness, and volunteerism.  She is a proud and active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Gamma Theta Omega chapter.