R. Grady Rankin
- Trustee, 1925–1965
- Vice-Chair, 1925–1965
Mr. Rankin worked for several textile mills and was a pioneer in the North Carolina textile industry. He served as a Director of the Duke Power Company for more than 30 years, with special responsibilities managing its textile interests. Mr. Rankin was active in North Carolina politics and civic organizations. He served as a state senator for 10 years and was the first president of the Gastonia Kiwanis Club. He served as the first Chairman of the Board of Advisors to Belmont Abbey College. In 1959, he received an award for promoting harmony among Catholics, Jews and Protestants in Gaston County. Mr. Rankin was a lay leader in the United Methodist Church and was especially concerned with the problems of small rural churches. After his election as a Trustee of The Duke Endowment in 1953, Mr. Rankin served for 21 years as a member of the Committee on Rural Churches and served as its Chairman from 1962 to 1970.