Florence S. Gaynor facts for kids
Florence Small Gaynor (October 29, 1920 – September 16, 1993) was the first black woman to lead a major teaching hospital in the United States.
Early Life and Education
Florence Small Gaynor was born in Jersey City, New Jersey. She was a very bright student and finished Lincoln High School when she was just 15 years old.
She wanted to study nursing at Jersey City Medical Center. However, at that time, they did not accept Black students. So, Florence went to the Lincoln School for Nurses instead. She graduated in 1946.
After becoming a nurse, Florence started working at Queens General Hospital. She also worked for the New York City's Health Department and Francis Delafield Hospital.
Florence continued her education. She earned two college degrees from New York University: a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in public health. In 1965, she also studied at the University of Oslo in Norway.
Leading Hospitals
Florence Gaynor began working in hospital management at Lincoln Hospital. By 1970, she became an assistant administrator, helping to run the hospital.
In 1971, Florence made history. She was chosen to be the executive director of Sydenham Hospital. This made her the first black woman to lead a major teaching hospital in the United States. A teaching hospital is a place where doctors learn and train.
After this, she continued to lead other important medical centers:
- In 1972, she became the executive director of Martland Hospital in Newark.
- From 1976 to 1980, she was a director at Meharry Medical College in Nashville.
- From 1980 to 1984, she directed the West Philadelphia Community Mental Health Consortium in Philadelphia.
Florence Gaynor passed away at the age of 72. She is remembered for her groundbreaking work and leadership in healthcare.
