Winnie, our oldest living alumna, is an extraordinary person. And not just because — as she put it — she’s “pretty damn old!”

Winnie grew up in Newnan, GA and graduated from Hollins with a Bachelor’s in philosophy. While a student, she was involved in the Student Government Association and wrote for the "Student Life” newspaper. Tinker Day continues to be her favorite Hollins memory.

After graduation, Winnie worked as a substitute teacher and later as a bookkeeper for her first husband’s business. Together they had six children. After his passing, Winnie remarried and became stepmother to two additional sons.

Winnie was an engaged civic leader, using her Hollins education to captain in everything from a voters guild and a garden club to Sunday School and Scouts. Her only daughter, Caroline, who generously shares her mother’s love, says Winnie taught her children to be kind, and give back. That is the most important thing.

Winnie told me Friday that she has had a happy life. As we sat hand-in-hand in her home, I was overwhelmed with gratitude for knowing this incredible woman and being a recipient of her deep care. She lights up when talking about Hollins and is a living witness to the enduring power of our mission.

It is my hope that Winnie’s life, legacy and heart continue to inspire the Hollins community for years to come.

- President Mary Dana Hinton

#MyHollins #HollinsAlumna #108thBirthday