Maudelle Brown Bousfleld accomplished a successful career as a Chicago teacher and principal in the midst of deep discrimination against African Americans. Her elite status helped prepare her with the necessary beliefs and tools to achieve a number of notable firsts in her life. Her career attainment also dictated that she assist in uplifting her race. She spent much of her life not only building a thriving career, but also serving her people in a number of different capacities.