ESSIE STROTHER PATTERSON LEGACY FOUNDATION

Description

Mrs. Essie Strother Patterson dedicated over 40 years to primary education, impacting thousands of students across the southeast. Even after retiring, she continued to lead adult education classes and tutored the children and grandchildren of former pupils. Living to 97, she was a beloved matriarch, philanthropist, activist, and educator. Mrs. Patterson believed in the potential of every child and established the Essie Strother Patterson/Georgia Mae Strother Scholarship at Benedict College to help students pursue their dreams.

The ESP Legacy organization, which she inspired, has installed historical markers in her hometown and launched numerous impactful programs, including:

- Cultural celebrations involving art, music, dance, spirituality
- Scholarships in cities like Columbia, Savannah, and Jacksonville, as well as Cape Coast, Ghana
- The World of Nations Celebration, and citizen diplomacy
- Initiatives promoting community innovations, diplomacy, and economic development
- Opportunities for travel, meals, and clothing for those in need
- Donations to literacy and music programs in the U.S., Ghana, Haiti, Jamaica, and South Africa

Through her leadership, Mrs. Patterson’s legacy inspires and empowers future generations.