The first major gift to Hollins was $5,000 from John and Ann Halsey Hollins in 1855. Where would Hollins be today without their foresight and generosity? Hollins today needs your support — to continue a tradition of excellence in educating young women.
In gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Hollins for their major gift in 1855, the trustees changed the name of the school to Hollins Institute. Ann Halsey and her husband made the generous gift because they shared Charles Lewis Cocke’s belief that young women had as much right to an education as did their brothers.