Lyon, << LY uhn, >> Mary (1797-1849), pioneered in providing higher education for women. She founded Mount Holyoke College, which opened as Mount Holyoke Female Seminary in 1837. Lyon also served as its president until her death. She aimed, through educational opportunities, to help young women develop their abilities and talents and to use them in service to others. Lyon was born in Buckland, Massachusetts, on Feb. 28, 1797. She died on March 5, 1849.
