Black History Month is an annual celebration of African American achievements, especially the central role that African American women played yesterday and continue to play today and into the future. 

 

African American women trailblazers have been impacting Black health and wellness for generations. There are a few names that you might not recognize but that you should familiarize yourself with. 

 

Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler helped change the face of medicine by becoming the first black woman in the United States to MD degree. She spent her career caring for freed slaves and serving indigenous women and children. 

 

Estelle Massey Osborne was the first black woman to earn a master’s degree in nursing. After completing her education, she made it her life’s work to help other black nurses access higher levels of education, and her work helped to grow the number of students accepted to nursing schools.

 

Mary Munson Runge was a black pharmacist and one of the few who graduated from Xavier University School of Pharmacy in 1948. Her passions included helping patients in need, many of whom could not afford their medications.

 

Not only have these women broken new ground themselves, but they have also paved the way for women of all races. They have shown bravery and integrity in their pursuits, breaking barriers, particularly for other women of color. 

 

TriHealth is excited to continue the celebration and education surrounding Black History Month as we honor Black Women and transition into Women’s History Month in March.

 

Happy Black History Month!