Lorraine Mayhew Hinds: Advocate for Education

A long-time teacher, Lorraine Mayhew Hinds believed in the power of education. Lorraine's family originated from Surrey County, VA, but during the Great Migration, they moved to Mt. Vernon, NY, where she was born.

Mrs. Hinds was very active in her church and was a classically trained pianist. She attended the Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester. Her first cousin, Bonnie Williams, said that her voice was "like a pure bell. When [Lorraine] began to sing, there was total silence."

After graduating from college (being the first in her family to do so), she briefly worked in social services, but Lorraine soon discovered her true calling: educating children at the elementary school level. Mrs. Hinds taught third grade, was a reading lab teacher, and retired as an administrator in the Bronx. She loved her students in the South Bronx and talked about them constantly to her family and friends. "If the children saw [her] as a role model," Lorraine believed, "they would have the confidence to achieve their goals."

Lorraine later obtained two master's degrees in education, enhancing her knowledge of and training in the field. Throughout her life, Lorraine was a strong advocate for equitable access to higher education and particularly for helping underserved students. After Mrs. Hinds passed away, a former student said of her, "Mrs. Hinds had so much patience and style."

Lorraine didn't share her intent to support UNCF with anyone, but it was apparent she knew that this gift would have a significant impact. Her bequest designated UNCF as the beneficiary of her teacher's retirement fund, and it will help countless students in their journey toward achieving a college degree. We are truly grateful for Mrs. Hinds's remarkable life spent educating children and for her commitment to UNCF's mission where we will proudly realize her legacy by helping deserving students get to and through college.