Charlotte Hawkins Brown was a leader of women in their quest for finer and more productive living, a mentor through her writings to those seeking to live graciously, and through her eloquence inspired youth to nobler achievements. By her vigor of mind and force of character, she championed for a disadvantaged race in its striving for human rights and adult responsibilities. She gave 58 years completely of her unique energies and talents to building this institute from its humblest beginnings in an old blacksmith shop. Her vision, dedication, singleness of purpose, and undaunted faith made this school possible in her native state of North Carolina.