The Lura S. Tally Center for Leadership Development is based at Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC.
She attended Peace College for two years before transferring to Duke University, where she graduated with a degree in English in 1942.
After raising two sons, she returned to school at N.C. State University, where she received a master's degree in education.
In 1972, she ran for a seat in the North Carolina General Assembly, and she became the first woman ever elected from Cumberland County.
A recipient of numerous awards and commendations for her leadership, she has initiated and supported growth of significant components of community life, such as the county's Mental Health Center and scouting.