Ruby Hooper facts for kids

Ruby T. Hooper (born October 5, 1924 – died October 12, 2007) was an American woman who worked as a dietitian (someone who plans healthy meals), managed food services in hospitals, and became a politician in North Carolina. In 1984, Ruby Hooper made history. She was the first woman from a major political party to run for Governor of North Carolina.

Early Life and Education

Ruby T. Hooper was born in Saluda, North Carolina. She loved learning and went to college. In 1943, she earned an associate degree from Mars Hill College. She then continued her studies and received a bachelor's degree in 1945 from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro.

Family Life

In 1946, Ruby married John O. Hooper. They had one daughter, Dr. Elizabeth Hooper Jackson. Ruby Hooper passed away on October 12, 2007, at the age of 83, in Asheville, North Carolina.

Career as a Dietitian

After finishing college in 1946, Ruby Hooper started her career as an assistant dietitian at Broughton Hospital. A dietitian helps people eat healthy and plans meals. In 1953, she became the director of food service at the same hospital. This meant she was in charge of all the food planning and preparation for the hospital. She held this important job until she retired in 1982.

Political Journey

Ruby Hooper was also very active in politics. She was the chairperson for the Republican Party in Burke County.

Running for Office

In 1982, she ran for a seat in the North Carolina House of Representatives but did not win. Her biggest political step came in 1984. She decided to run for Governor of North Carolina as a Republican candidate. This was a very important moment because she was the first woman from a major party to ever run for this high office in North Carolina.

However, she did not win the Republican "primary" election. A primary election is when members of a political party choose who will represent them in the main election. She was defeated by James G. Martin, who later became the governor.

Public Service Roles

Even though she didn't become governor, Ruby Hooper continued to serve the public. She worked as a deputy secretary in the Department of Human Resources during Governor Martin's time in office. This department helps people with health and social services.

In 1991, she decided to try again for the governor's nomination, but she lost to Lt. Gov. James C. Gardner.

Community Involvement and Awards

Beyond her political campaigns, Ruby Hooper was involved in many important community groups. She worked with the N.C. Committee on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, which helps prevent problems caused by alcohol use during pregnancy. She also helped with the N.C. Caring Program for Children and served on the Governor's Advisory Council on Aging, which supports older people.

Ruby Hooper received several awards for her dedication and service:

• In 1984, she was named Burke County Woman of the Year.
• In 1987, she was recognized as the Mars Hill College Alumna of the Year.
• In 1990, she received a community service award from the Governor.