11oz Black Mug (MARY MCLEOD BERTHUNE)

Mary McLeod Bethune was an influential American educator, philanthropist, humanitarian, and civil rights activist. Here are some key highlights of her life and achievements:

1. Early Life and Education: Born on July 10, 1875, in Mayesville, South Carolina, Bethune was the daughter of formerly enslaved parents. She graduated from Scotia Seminary (now Barber-Scotia College) in 1893 and the Moody Bible Institute in 1895.
2. Educational Pioneer: In 1904, she founded the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute for Negro Girls in Daytona Beach, Florida, which later became Bethune-Cookman University.
3. Civil Rights Leadership: Bethune was a prominent leader in African American affairs and worked closely with President Franklin D. Roosevelt as a special adviser on minority issues. She founded the National Council of Negro Women in 1935 and served as its president until 1949.
4. Legacy: Bethune’s efforts in education and civil rights have left a lasting impact. She was the first African American woman to head a federal agency and was instrumental in the creation of the “Black Cabinet” during Roosevelt’s administration.

Mary McLeod Bethune’s dedication to education and equality continues to inspire generations.