Elizabeth Blanchard was born in 1834 in Sandwich, New Hampshire, and taught for a few years before entering Mount Holyoke. She graduated from the Seminary in 1858. She served as Associate Principal from 1872-1883 with Anna C. Edwards, and was Principal of the Seminary from 1883-1888. During her tenure she upgraded the curriculum and introduced more non-Seminary-trained teachers. The College charter was granted in 1888, whereupon she became Acting President of the Seminary and College until 1889. She died in 1891. In 1950, Blanchard Hall was renamed in her honor.