Lena Prewitt facts for kids
Lena Burrell Prewitt was a very important American professor. She was born on February 17, 1931, and passed away on February 14, 2024. Dr. Prewitt made history as the first African-American woman to become a professor at the University of Alabama. She was also famous for her work with NASA on the powerful Saturn V rocket project. This rocket helped send astronauts to the Moon!
Early Life and Education
Lena Prewitt was born in Boiling Springs, Alabama. She loved learning and worked hard in school. She earned her master's degree in 1955. Later, in 1961, she earned her EdD. An EdD is a special high-level degree in education. It means she was an expert in teaching and learning.
Working with NASA
One of the most exciting parts of Dr. Prewitt's career was her time at NASA. She worked with a famous rocket scientist named Wernher von Braun. They were part of the team that developed the Saturn V rocket. This huge rocket was key to the Apollo missions. It helped send astronauts to the Moon!
A Passion for Teaching
After her important work at NASA, Dr. Prewitt focused on her main passion: teaching. She taught at Florence State College for a while. In 1970, she and her husband, Moses Kennedy Prewitt, moved to the University of Alabama. There, she became a professor in what is now the Culverhouse College of Business.
Dr. Prewitt also held many different teaching jobs at Stillman College. This was a special place for her because she had studied there herself. She taught many students and helped them learn and grow.
Later Life
Lena Burrell Prewitt had one son and two grandchildren. She passed away in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on February 14, 2024. She was 92 years old. Dr. Prewitt left behind a legacy of breaking barriers and inspiring others through her work in science and education.
