Rosemary Everton, author of Maid in America: A Journey of Resilience, Determination, and the American Dream, will share her inspiring story of grit, perseverance, and success on October 22 at 1:30 p.m. in the Meagher Theatre.

Born into a working-class family on Delaware's Eastern Shore, Everton became pregnant at fifteen and married young. While juggling motherhood, night school, and work, she and her husband Mike built a cleaning business from the ground up -- transforming a small residential service into a multimillion-dollar commercial cleaning enterprise.

Along the way, she experienced personal and professional tragedies, including the death of children, family challenges, and financial hardship.

In 1991, she was recognized by President George H.W. Bush, who publicly celebrated her achievements during a high school graduation speech and brought her remarkable journey into the national spotlight.

In addition to a gripping story, Everton’s life offers lessons in entrepreneurship with candid insights into building a successful business. Her story is a reminder that the American Dream is alive for those with determination.

Published in 2025, Maid in America is available through online booksellers.

Everton’s appearance is sponsored by the Cultural Arts Forum. Free-will donations for this program benefit the Dr. Margaret Mary Kearney scholarship, which assists non-traditional students.

For the full arts schedule, visit www.neumann.edu/arts.