Effie Lee Morris (1921-2009)

In choosing librarianship over teaching or social work, Effie Lee Morris combined her desire to help people with a personal passion for education.  In doing so she became one of America’s leading advocates for services to children, minorities, and the visually-impaired.  Born in Richmond, Virginia … Read MoreEffie Lee Morris (1921-2009)

Clara McBride Hale (1905-1992)

Clara McBride Hale, founder of Hale House, a nationally recognized facility for the care of addicted children, was born on April 1, 1905 in Elizabeth City, North Carolina and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. When Hale was a youngster, her family experienced tragedy.  Her father died, … Read MoreClara McBride Hale (1905-1992)

Ionia Rollin Whipper (1872-1953)

Dr. Ionia Rollin Whipper, physician and social reformer, was born September 8, 1872 in Beaufort, South Carolina. She was one of three surviving children born to author and diarist Frances Anne Rollin and Judge William James Whipper. By 1878, as the Reconstruction period was ending … Read MoreIonia Rollin Whipper (1872-1953)

Barack Obama’s Call to Service: One Woman Responds

In the following article University of Washington, Tacoma student Kayomi Wada describes how she and other Tacoma residents banded together to create a local project that reflects President Barack Obama’s Call to Service. As a fourth-generation Japanese American, whose family made their living in the New … Read MoreBarack Obama’s Call to Service: One Woman Responds