Dr. Summerville, a retired educator, philanthropist, humanitarian, author, producer, and playwright, wears many hats locally, statewide, and nationally. She currently serves as the Regional North Carolina Chaplain and Matriarch of Global International Alliance University (GIAU). In this role, she provides spiritual leadership and mentorship to members while supporting the university’s mission to honor individuals around the world who make a positive impact in their communities. Through GIA Advocate University, an Honorary and Award Program in Humanitarianism, Dr. Summerville helps to recognize and celebrate global leaders dedicated to service, excellence, and humanitarian advancement.
In addition to her work with GIAU, Dr. Summerville is the Founder of the Summerville Institute for Excellence and Service, an organization designed to promote leadership, empowerment, and humanitarian recognition through education, mentorship, and community initiatives. The Institute serves as a platform to uplift individuals who embody excellence and a spirit of service, continuing Dr. Summerville’s lifelong mission of “building people to build communities.”
She also founded J & L Summerville Academy, the first community-based school in Wilson County, providing suspended children a safe haven to continue their education and receive credit during their suspension. Named in memory of her beloved parents, the academy ensures that every child who completes the program receives academic credit for attendance and coursework. She further expanded her vision by establishing after-school programs and summer camps to support student success year-round.

In addition to her many talents, Dr. Summerville produced the community talent show Wilson Idol, which has showcased and encouraged local artistic talent. Her leadership and community outreach have earned her over 32 community service awards, including the prestigious “Distinguished Career Award” in 2016. She is also the recipient of two Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards, presented during the administrations of President Barack Obama and President Joe Biden. Furthermore, she is a co-author of the book “Mr. President.”
Her multi-award-winning stage play, “Spare The Rod, Spoil The Child,” has been performed at prestigious venues such as the Progress Energy Center in Raleigh, The Lincoln Theatre in Washington, D.C., The River Center in Columbus, Georgia, Carolina Theatre in Durham, and The Oven Auditorium in Charlotte. Staying true to her roots, she also brought the play home to Fike High School—where she both graduated and worked as an administrator—and to Fayetteville State University, her alma mater.

Pastor Shirley Caesar, known worldwide as the Queen of Gospel, affectionately refers to Dr. Summerville as “The Tall One,” a nickname honoring her commanding six-foot stature and equally towering presence in faith and leadership. Dr. Summerville is a faithful member of Mt. Calvary Word of Faith Church and has served as an Armor Bearer for Pastor Shirley Caesar for nearly 30 years, demonstrating unwavering spiritual commitment and loyalty.
Her inspiring book, A Woman With A Vision, is now available on Amazon and reflects her extraordinary faith, leadership, and purpose journey. Dr. Summerville is also preparing to release several new titles, including Don’t Let Your Mind Outrun Your Heart, Church Bullies, and Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child, each continuing her mission to uplift, educate, and empower others through Christian principles and real-life lessons. In addition, she is adapting her award-winning stage play into a screenplay for a major motion picture. Her play was recently featured at the Johnny Mercer Theater in Savannah, Georgia, starring Pastor Shirley Caesar, Alexis Spight, and Sister Cantaloupe.
Dr. Mildred Summerville continues to be a beacon of inspiration, faith, and service—a woman whose vision, leadership, and compassion have transformed lives and uplifted communities across generations.