Mildred Augustine Wirt Benson, born on July 10, 1905, in Ladora, Iowa, was a pioneering journalist and author, best known for her role as the original ghostwriter of the Nancy Drew mystery series. Her time at the University of Iowa’s School of Journalism was instrumental in shaping her career and literary contributions.

Benson enrolled at the State University of Iowa (now the University of Iowa) shortly after high school. She graduated in just three years with a bachelor’s degree in English in 1925. Demonstrating exceptional dedication and aptitude, she returned to the university in 1926 to pursue graduate studies in journalism. In 1927, she became the first person to earn a master’s degree in journalism from the university.

During her undergraduate years, Benson was actively involved in campus life. She served as an editor for the Hawkeye Yearbook and The Daily Iowan, the university’s student newspaper. Additionally, she was a member of the journalism sorority Theta Sigma Phi and participated in the Cosmopolitan Club, which celebrated cultural diversity. Her engagement in these organizations honed her editorial skills and broadened her perspectives, both of which would later influence her writing.

After completing her master’s degree, Benson briefly worked as a reporter for the Clinton (Iowa) Herald before moving to New York City in 1926. Although she did not secure a writing position immediately, her time in New York led to a significant meeting with Edward Stratemeyer, the owner of the Stratemeyer Syndicate. This encounter eventually led to her role as the original ghostwriter for the Nancy Drew series, where she created the character’s strong, independent persona.

Benson’s contributions to literature and journalism were recognized posthumously. In 1991, she was inducted into the University of Iowa’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication Hall of Fame. The following year, the university honored her with its Distinguished Alumni Award. Her legacy was further celebrated with the organization of the first Nancy Drew Conference in 1993, highlighting her impact on both journalism and children’s literature.

For more detailed information about Benson’s life and work, you can explore the Iowa Women’s Archives, which houses a comprehensive collection of her papers and related materials.