Mrs. Evelyn Lawrence was a pioneer in Smyth County education. She had the honor of being the first local teacher of a desegregated class; all of whom went on to college – a feat in itself. She has been instrumental in espousing a love of theater, music, and creative writing in our community and beyond. Some of her students have gone on to fame and prestige in their own right.
No doubt, those students were inspired by Mrs. Lawrence’s spirit and drive to live life to its fullest. Never one to cease learning and creating, she is currently working to establish the Mt. Pleasant Heritage Museum to shine a light on the area’s African American history and culture.