Jeannie Benjamin began hooking in 1971; McGown certified in 1979.  She has conducted home classes for the last 48 years, and began a career of teaching outside her home in the late 80’s.  She has taught in 30 states, and in Canada.  Castle in the Clouds, Caraway, Rock River, Cedar Lakes and Maryland Shores are a few of the rug schools she has taught at as well as numerous workshops.  For 32 years, she owned New Earth Designs and added many designs to it. Dyeing wool is a passion and is done nearly daily.  She has an Etsy shop and owns Lib Callaway’s collection of rug designs. She was honored to be included in the first Celebration Hall of Fame.