William McDowell: Former Student of Reynolds School

(Above) William McDowell takes a break at the Reynolds School Spring Fling. The event renunites students who attended the segregated institution decades ago. He referred to the area as “sacred ground”.

William McDowell grew up in Canton, NC and attended Reynolds School. The local segregated institution insisted on excellence from its student body and taught first through twelfth grade. According to the businessman and community activist, the school was approximately “500 yards” from his childhood home. The institution made a profound impact on his life then and continues to today.

As the main benefactor, McDowell is in the process of renovating the school that closed in 1966-67, with plans to transform it into a community center. Amenities inside the historic structure will include a music studio sponsored by McDowell’s wife Gladys Knight, a Grammy Award-winning Motown singer. A gymnasium for shows, computer rooms for students, a café with food options and even a skate park for children, which will be located outside on the center’s grounds.