Challenge and Change in Appalachia is the story of a groundbreaking center for education that transformed a community. The School's farms and extension work brought modern methods to the area. At the same time, the School encouraged preservation of the region's crafts and music. Today, unique programs for dyslexic children, work in adult education, and cultural heritage activities make the School a model for rural redevelopment.
Jess Stoddart, retired professor emeritus of history at San Diego State University, has been a member of the board of directors of Hindman Settlement School since 1997.