May Werthan Shayne, born February 19, 1943, was a native Nashvillian and a tireless advocate for children and families. Her higher education career began in 1956 when she received a B.A. from Radcliffe College in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and her Masters of Social Work from the New York School of Social Work. In 1993, she became a candidate for a doctoral degree in public policy at Vanderbilt University. While Mrs. Shayne pursued educational excellence, she was dedicated to helping those in need. From 1969-1980, she worked at what is now called Edgehill Community Center. She was a founding member of the Metropolitan Nashville Public Education Foundation. As a member of the Nashville Council of Jewish Women, Mrs. Shayne chaired the Richland House Project that established and operated a group home for troubled youth. While her dedication to social issues was evident through her actions, she also exhibited her passion for social and public policy by co-authoring two books.

May Werthan Shayne died in February, 1999. Her life was an example to all that knew her. She was a beloved mother, sister, wife, friend, and colleague. It was said of Mrs. Shayne at her death: "In all of May's relationships, she lifted up the human heart. That's the way she spent her life. She was an uplifter of the human heart and mind." May Werthan Shayne Elementary School is proud to bear her name and continue her legacy.