Spelman College was founded in Atlanta, Georgia, as the Atlanta Baptist Female Seminary, motivated by a commitment to education for African-American women in the South. In the early years following the Civil War, access to education for African-Americans, especially women, was severely limited due to systemic racism and societal norms that marginalized their rights. The founders, Sophia B. Packard and Harriet E. Giles, recognized the profound need for institutions that focused on the education of African-American women, who were often excluded from mainstream educational opportunities. They established the seminary with a dual purpose: to provide academic education and to instill moral values, which they considered essential for the advancement of African-American communities.The seminary began with a small group of students and gradually expanded its programs to include a variety of academic and vocational courses. Spelman College became known for its rigorous programs and a strong sense of community among its students, who often faced similar challenges outside the classroom. As the years went by, the institution grew not only in size but also in reputation, fostering a commitment to social justice and equality. It also became affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church, further strengthening its mission.Over the decades, Spelman College emerged as a center for African-American female leadership and scholarship. Notable alumni have played significant roles in various fields, influencing civil rights, education, politics, and arts. The seminary evolved into Spelman College in 1924, marking a milestone in its journey toward becoming one of the leading historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the nation. It continues to shape the lives of many women and remains committed to its founding principles of education and empowerment.