Short Summary
Dorothy Vaughan was an African-American mathematician and human computer who played a pivotal role in the early years of the American space program. She is best known for her work at NASA, where she became the first African-American woman to supervise a group of staff. Her contributions to the field of mathematics and computer science, especially during a time of racial segregation, have cemented her legacy as a pioneer for both women and African-Americans in STEM disciplines.
Early Life & Education
Dorothy Johnson Vaughan was born on September 20, 1910, in Kansas City, Missouri. She was raised in West Virginia, where her family moved when she was young. Growing up in a supportive family that valued education, she excelled in her studies. Dorothy graduated from Beechurst High School in Morgantown, West Virginia, in 1925. She later attended Wilberforce University in Ohio, where she graduated with a bachelor's degree in mathematics in 1929. Her early educational experiences laid the foundation for her future career in mathematics and computer science.
Career Highlights
After graduating from college, Dorothy Vaughan began her career as a mathematics teacher in Virginia. In 1943, she joined the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA, as a human computer at the Langley Memorial Aeronautical Laboratory. In 1949, she became the first African-American woman to supervise a group of staff at the organization, heading the West Area Computers section. Dorothy was instrumental in transitioning her team and herself to become proficient in the use of electronic computers, a crucial step for the success of NASA's early space missions.
Major Achievements
- First African-American supervisor at NACA/NASA: Led the West Area Computers section.
- Contributed to early space missions: Her calculations were vital to the success of many missions.
- Pioneered programming in FORTRAN: Helped NASA transition to electronic computing.
Famous Quotes
- "I changed what I could, and what I couldn't, I endured."
- "The greatest challenge is not the programming but the people."
Interesting Facts
- She worked at NASA for 28 years, retiring in 1971.
- Dorothy was portrayed by Octavia Spencer in the film "Hidden Figures."
- She was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2019.
Legacy / Influence
Dorothy Vaughan's legacy is marked by her groundbreaking role as a leader and mentor for women and African-Americans in science and technology. Her work at NASA during a time of significant social and technological change paved the way for future generations. Her story, brought to the wider public through the book and film "Hidden Figures," continues to inspire young women and minorities to pursue careers in STEM fields.
FAQ
Q: Why is Dorothy Vaughan famous?
A: She is famous for being the first African-American supervisor at NASA and for her contributions to the early American space program.
Q: What did Dorothy Vaughan do at NASA?
A: She worked as a mathematician and human computer, later becoming a supervisor and pioneering the use of electronic computers.
Q: How was Dorothy Vaughan recognized for her work?
A: She was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2019.
