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Dr. Haynes! Born: September 11, 1890 Died: July 25, 1980 |
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Dr. Euphemia Haynes is currently
thought to
be the first African-American woman
to
receive a Ph. D. in mathematics (Catholic University, 1943).
Evelyn Boyd Granville (Yale) and Marjorie Lee Browne (U. of Michigan) were both awarded doctorates in 1949. All three seem to have been unaware that they might be holders of any records. They merely were pursuing a love of mathematics.
Euphemia Haynes, earned her undergraduate degree from Smith College in 1914. She managed to complete her Ph. D. in mathematics 29 years years later at the age of 53 while working full time in demanding jobs. These positions included being Chair of the District of Columbia School Board.
These three women were true pioneers in the finest American tradition.
Photo
courtesy of the Smith College Archives, Smith College