Reflecting on Rosalynn Carter’s impact on Michiana

Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter has died at the age of 96.

She entered the White House at the height of the Women's Movement, becoming the first time a First Lady maintained an office in the east wing with the formal staff.

Carter was an advocate for mental health and devoted herself to Habitat for Humanity.

Her efforts with Habitat for Humanity had a lasting impact on the nation and right here in Michiana as well. Rosalynn and Jimmy Carter worked as part of as a team, to help build 41 homes in Mishawaka five years ago.

Mishawaka’s Mayor Dave Wood releasing a statement about Carter’s passing saying, “Rosalynn touched and transformed many communities around the world with her service; by Mishawaka is no exception. The Fields of Highland Neighborhood wouldn’t be there without the Carters, and we will always remember and celebrate her life well lived as we continue to expand that great community.”

Michigan’s Governor Gretchen Whitmer also releasing a statement saying, “First Lady Rosalynn Carter was a strong American woman who set a powerful example for us all to follow. From her efforts as a pioneering advocate for mental health to the hard work she did building houses alongside her husband with Habitat for Humanity, Mrs. Carter dedicated her long life to making a real difference in other people’s lives.”