Lifting As We Climb

Mrs. Thelma Lee White McDaniel, educator and community leader. Mrs. McDaniel lived a relatively carefree life until the untimely death of her father. To support her mother, she took on the sobering task of managing the household and caring for her brothers and sister. In spite of these responsibilities, Thelma managed to graduate from Garnet High School near the top of her class and went on to acquire a degree in elementary education from West Virginia State College (University), and a Masters degree from Marshall University. After graduation, she took a position with the Kanawha County Public School System where she remained a highly regarded elementary school teacher who touched many lives during her forty year career.

Because service to the community was a mainstay in her life, Thelma accepted leadership positions in several Charleston organizations. She was one of the founders of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority's graduate chapter, Beta Beta Omega and served as its president in the late 1960s and early '70s.

Thelma was also a devoted member and ardent supporter of the Charleston Woman's Improvement League. While a member, she co-founded the Polly Pigtail Club in Themis '50s and the League Teens in the early'60s. She also served as the organization's president in the 1980s.

Thelma was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church and an affiliate of the Sanctuary Choir for more than 60 years.

Congratulations to Shayla Clark who graduated from college and is now a nurse. Shayla was the recipient of our $1,000.00 2018 CWIL College Academic Scholarship.