Emmett J. Conrad facts for kids

Emmett James Conrad (born October 6, 1923 – died April 24, 1993) was a very important surgeon and community leader in Dallas. He made history as the first African-American person to join the board of trustees for the Dallas Independent School District. He was also the first African-American member of the Texas State Board of Education.

Emmett's Early Life and School

Emmett J. Conrad was born in 1923 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. His parents were John and Flora Conrad. After high school, he started college at Southern University. Soon after, he joined the United States Army during World War II.

After serving in the army, Emmett went back to school. He finished his college studies at Stanford University. Then, he went to Meharry Medical College in Nashville. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1948.

Emmett's Career and Community Work

Becoming a Surgeon

After medical school, Dr. Conrad trained to become a surgeon. He completed his surgical training at Homer Phillips Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. In 1955, he moved to Dallas to work at St. Paul's Hospital.

Before 1954, Black doctors in Dallas faced many challenges. They could not work in or join the medical teams at major Dallas hospitals. They were also not allowed to join the Texas Medical Association (TMA). This was the only professional group recognized by the American Medical Association (AMA) in Texas.

St. Paul's Hospital was the first hospital for white patients in Dallas to welcome Black doctors. They allowed Black doctors to work there and join their staff. In 1956, Dr. Conrad became the first Black surgeon on the staff at St. Paul's Hospital. Later, he even became the hospital's Chief of Staff. This was a very important step forward.

A Leader in Education

Besides being a doctor, Dr. Conrad was also a strong supporter of education. He was a key leader in the Dallas community. In 1967, he became the first Black member of the Dallas Independent School District (DISD) Board of Trustees.

He also served on the Select Committee on Public Education. Governor Mark White then chose him for another important role. Dr. Conrad became the first Black member of the Texas State Board of Education.

During his 10 years on the DISD Board, Dr. Conrad worked hard for many changes. He helped schools become desegregated, meaning students and staff of all races could learn and work together. He also helped start free lunch programs for students from low-income families. And he helped create Kindergarten programs in the school district.

As a member of the Texas State Board of Education, Dr. Conrad also helped pass a well-known rule. It was called House Bill 72, or "No Pass No Play." This rule means that students must be passing all their school classes. If they are not, they cannot take part in sports or other extra activities.

Awards and Special Honors

In 1993, a special program was created in Dr. Conrad's honor. It is called the Dr. Emmett J. Conrad Leadership Program. This program helps college students in Texas Senatorial District 23. It gives them chances to do internships and community service. This helps them build their leadership skills.

In 2006, a new school was opened in Dallas, Texas. It was named Emmett J. Conrad High School to remember and honor Dr. Conrad's important work.

Emmett's Family Life

Emmett Conrad married Eleanor Nelson on July 15, 1949. They had one child, a daughter named Cecilia Conrad. Cecilia is now the CEO for Lever for Change. She is also a Managing Director at the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. Emmett J. Conrad passed away on April 24, 1993.