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Johney Brooks
JohneyBrooks1992.png
Johney Brooks, from a 1992 publication of the US State Department
Born February 7, 1933
Clarksdale, Mississippi
Died October 1, 2016
Lake Katrine, New York
Occupation Educator, Peace Corps official

Johney Brooks (born February 7, 1933 – died October 1, 2016) was an amazing American educator. She worked for the US Department of State and the Peace Corps. Her work mainly took her to countries in Africa. She also served at embassies in places like Turkmenistan and Papua New Guinea.

Johney Brooks's Early Life and Education

Johney Brooks was born in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Her parents, Thomas and Beulah Johnson, were sharecroppers. She grew up in Texas and California.

Becoming a Scientist and Teacher

After serving in the military, Johney went to college. She earned a bachelor's degree in biology from California State University, Los Angeles. Later, she got a master's degree in chemistry at the University of Arizona. She also trained to become a teacher. Johney continued her studies at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). There, she focused on international education.

Johney Brooks's Career Journey

Johney Brooks had a very interesting career. She started by serving her country.

Serving in the Air Force

In 1951, Johney joined the United States Air Force. This was during the Korean War. She served for two years and was honorably discharged in 1953.

Working as an Educator and Chemist

After her military service, Johney worked as a chemist in Los Angeles. She also taught high school science in Los Angeles and Compton. Later, she became a school administrator in Sacramento and Pomona. She even taught at Humboldt State University as an assistant professor.

Helping Others Around the World

Johney Brooks loved to help people learn. From 1969 to 1971, she taught science teachers in Uganda. This was part of a program by the USAID.

Later, from 1982 to 1985, she became a director for the Peace Corps in Gambia. The Peace Corps is a group that sends American volunteers to help other countries. She also worked at the Bahá'i World Centre in Haifa.

Johney held important jobs at US embassies in many countries. These included Tunisia, Niger, Sierra Leone, Guyana, Turkmenistan, and Papua New Guinea. She helped build good relationships between the US and these nations.

Johney Brooks's Family and Beliefs

Johney Brooks was a follower of the Bahá'i religion. This faith teaches about unity and peace.

Her Children and Legacy

Johney had two children. Her daughter, Alexis Brooks de Vita, is a professor of English. Her son, W. Abdullah Brooks, is a public health physician. He teaches at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Johney Brooks passed away in 2016 at the age of 83. She died in Lake Katrine, New York, after some health problems.

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