M. E. Thompson Coppin facts for kids
Melissa Evelyn Thompson Coppin (born around 1878 – died September 27, 1940) was an American doctor. She made history as the tenth African American woman to earn a medical degree in the United States. Dr. Coppin was also famous for starting a group called the Women's Christian Alliance (WCA), which helped children and families.
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Early Life and Becoming a Doctor
Melissa Evelyn Thompson was born around 1878. She studied very hard and graduated from the Women's Medical College in 1900. This college is now known as the Medical College of Pennsylvania. When she finished her studies, she became a medical doctor. This was a huge achievement, as she was only the tenth African American woman in the entire United States to earn a doctor's degree.
Family Life
In August 1914, Melissa Thompson married African Methodist Episcopal Church Bishop Levi J. Coppin. For their honeymoon, they drove to Cape May in a new car that Levi gave her as a wedding gift. Melissa and Levi had one daughter named Theodosia. Sadly, Levi passed away in 1924.
Helping the Community: The Women's Christian Alliance
After World War I ended, many African American families and young women were moving into cities like Philadelphia. Dr. Coppin saw that these new residents needed help and support. So, in 1919, she founded the Women's Christian Alliance (WCA) in Philadelphia.
The WCA was a special organization that worked to protect children and provide care for them. It also offered a safe place for families, acting as a shelter and a daycare center. Dr. Coppin's sister, Dr. Syrene Elizabeth Thompson Benjamin, also helped with the WCA for several years.
Later Years
Dr. Melissa Evelyn Thompson Coppin passed away on September 27, 1940. She left behind a legacy of caring for others and helping to create a better community for children and families.
