People in Public Service Cassandra Messegee Brown, Thurston County Superintendent of Schools

Cassandra Messegee Brown made history as Thurston County's first female superintendent of schools when she was appointed in 1919. She was instrumental in creating school lunch programs and tackling a teacher shortage by recruiting educators from Bellingham Normal School. Brown was born on November 10, 1878, to George and Catherine Messegee in Tacoma, Washington. After graduating from Olympia High School, she became a teacher in 1901, demonstrating her commitment to education from a young age. Her innovative living arrangements, including residing in a portable cookhouse, highlighted her resourcefulness in rural education settings.

Brown's tenure also saw her actively participating in community organizations such as the Woman’s Club of Olympia. Her legacy underscores the importance of female leadership in education during a time of significant social change. Brown's dedication to enhancing educational resources continues to resonate in Washington State today.