Ruth Rawlings Mott (1901 - 1999)

Ruth Rawlings Mott (1901-1999) was raised in El Paso, Texas. Her father was a family practice physician who served those in need on both sides of the border. Her mother was a businesswoman, kindergarten teacher, and founder of the El Paso YWCA.

Ruth went east to study physical education, became a teacher in the Baltimore Friends School, and returned to El Paso to open her own dance studio. It was there that she met and married Charles Stewart Mott and moved to his estate, Applewood, in Flint, Michigan. She became a mother, an active partner with her husband in the community, and prominent in her own right as a local leader, foundation trustee, and national philanthropist.

Those fortunate enough to have known Ruth enjoyed her wonderful sense of humor, her compassion for others and her commitment to her community. She loved Applewood's gardens and enjoyed sharing them with visitors. Her favorite floral color combination was pink, blue and white though she delighted in nature's beauty wherever she was, from her arid childhood home to the tropical surroundings of the family winter retreat in Bermuda, to the changing seasons at Applewood. She often said "You should learn something new every day." and was pleased to know Applewood provided that opportunity. Two quotes found on her dressing table mirror that she took to heart were "Listening is the beginning of understanding." and "The first great gift we can bestow on others is a good example."

Mrs. Mott established the Ruth Mott Foundation as a means of extending the reach of her philanthropy beyond her lifetime with a continued presence in Flint.

The Ruth Mott Foundation strives to embody and uphold her values.

• Be welcoming, inclusive and egalitarian
• Treat everyone with respect and dignity
• Act with kindness and good humor
• Encourage personal responsibility
• Practice prevention
• Maintain the "long view"