Eunice Thomas Miner facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Eunice Thurston Thomas Miner
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Eunice Thomasina Thomas Miner-Director of the New York Academy of Sciences
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| Born | August 9, 1899 West Virginia, USA
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| Died | March 18, 1993 (aged 93) Boynton Beach, Palm Beach, Florida, USA
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| Nationality | American |
| Other names | Tommy Miner |
| Alma mater | Boston University |
| Spouse(s) | Roy Waldo Miner |
| Scientific career | |
| Institutions | New York Academy of Sciences |
Eunice Thomasina Thomas Miner (August 8, 1899 – March 18, 1993) was an important leader in science. Her friends often called her "Tommy." She was the Executive Director of the New York Academy of Sciences for many years, from 1939 to 1967.
During her time, she helped the organization grow a lot. She even found a new main office for them, which was a gift from Norman Woolworth. Eunice Miner also strongly supported using science to improve public health. For example, she worked with Hilary Koprowski to help with research on the polio vaccine. She first joined the New York Academy of Sciences in 1935.
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About Eunice Miner's Life
Eunice Thomasina Thomas Miner was born on August 8, 1899, in Everett, Massachusetts. She went to Boston University and finished her studies in 1925.
In 1926, she married Roy Waldo Miner. He was a curator (someone who manages collections) at the American Museum of Natural History. He had also been a president of the New York Academy of Sciences. Eunice Miner had many friends, including the famous anthropologist Margaret Mead. They both worked as research assistants at the American Museum of Natural History. After she retired, Eunice Miner moved to Florida, where she passed away on March 18, 1993.
Eunice Miner's Work in Science
Eunice Miner held many important jobs during her career. She was the Director of the Marine Historical Museum and served on the board of the International Foundation for Sciences. She also had many leadership roles at the New York Academy of Sciences.
Leading the New York Academy of Sciences
In October 1939, Eunice Miner was chosen to be the Executive Secretary of the New York Academy of Sciences. One of her first big goals was to get more people to join the Academy. She was very friendly and enthusiastic, which helped her succeed. Her efforts made the Academy much more popular.
Finding a New Home for Science
By 1948, the Academy had grown to 4,000 members. They needed a bigger space than the two rooms they used at the American Museum of Natural History. The Academy started a campaign to raise money for a new building.
Eunice Miner was in charge of asking wealthy people for donations. She met Norman Woolworth, who was very impressed by her energy and passion. He decided to simply donate his large mansion to the Academy! This generous gift, valued at $1,000,000, became the Academy's new home in 1948. The mansion was updated and became a central place for scientists in New York to meet and hold special events.
Retirement and Legacy
Eunice Miner retired as Executive Director of the New York Academy of Sciences in 1967. When she retired, the Academy held a special event to honor her. They recognized her amazing work in helping the institution grow. Thanks to her, the Academy's membership increased from just 350 members in 1939 to more than 26,000 by 1967!
