Edith Abbott, born in 1876, was the first woman dean of a graduate school in an American university. She attained national fame as an educator, scholar, author, social reformer and administrator.

Grace Abbott, born in 1878, was an internationally known social worker and reformer who became director of the Immigrants' Protective League of Hull House in Chicago in 1917.

Henry Fonda, born in 1905, was the famous actor who appeared in more than 60 movies, including "The Grapes of Wrath" in 1940, "Twelve Angry Men" in 1957 and "On Golden Pond" in 1981. His most famous stage appearance was in "Mr. Roberts" in 1948.

Fonda only lived in Grand Island for one year but visited the city several times.