Betty Smith Williams facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Betty Smith Williams
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|---|---|
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Case Western Reserve University |
| Occupation | Nurse |
| Known for | First African-American nurse to graduate from the nursing school at Case Western Reserve University |
| Medical career | |
| Institutions | University of California, Los Angeles |
| Sub-specialties | Public health nursing |
Betty Smith Williams is an important American nurse. She made history by being the first African-American nurse to graduate from the nursing school at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). She also became the first black person to teach at a college or university in California. Plus, she helped start the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA).
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Who is Betty Smith Williams?
Betty Smith Williams is known for breaking barriers in nursing and education. Her work has helped many people and inspired future nurses.
Her Journey in Education
Betty Smith Williams first studied zoology (the study of animals) at Howard University. Later, she earned her doctorate (a very high degree) from Case Western Reserve University's nursing school in 1954. This was a big moment because she was the first black nurse to graduate from that school.
Breaking Barriers in Teaching
In 1956, Betty Williams made history again. She became the first black person to teach at a college or university in California. She taught public health nursing (nursing focused on community health) at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
A Leader for Black Nurses
Betty Williams also helped create the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) in 1971. This group supports black nurses and helps improve health for African Americans. She was the president of the NBNA from 1995 to 1999. In 1980, she was recognized as a fellow of the American Academy of Nursing. This is a high honor for nurses.
