Stella James Sims facts for kids
Stella James Sims (1875-1963) was a pioneering African-American science professor. She taught at several colleges, including Storer College, Virginia University of Lynchburg, and Bluefield Colored Institute. She helped many students learn about science.
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Who Was Stella James Sims?
Stella James was born on February 5, 1875, in Washington, D.C.. Her parents were Lewis and Annie (Smith) James. She grew up in Washington, D.C., and went to public schools there.
Her Early Life and Education
After finishing public school, Stella attended Storer College. She graduated from Storer College in 1893. She then went on to Bates College in Maine. In 1897, she made history by becoming the first African-American woman to graduate from Bates College. While at college, she studied physics. She also wrote articles for the Bates Student, which was the college newspaper.
A Career in Science and Teaching
After college, Stella James began her teaching career. From 1897 to 1898, she taught at the Virginia Seminary in Lynchburg, Virginia. She then returned to her old school, Storer College, where she taught from 1898 to 1901.
In 1901, Stella married Robert Page Sims (1872-1944). He was also a graduate of Storer College. Together, they had six children.
From 1906, and for many years after, Stella Sims taught science and biology at Bluefield Colored Institute. This school was located in Bluefield, West Virginia. She became the head of the science department there. She helped many young people learn about the world through science.
Later Life
Stella James Sims eventually retired from teaching. She moved to a farm in Perkiomenville, Pennsylvania. She passed away in 1963. Her grave is at the Cedar Hill Cemetery in Bolivar, West Virginia. Stella James Sims is remembered for her important work as a science educator and for being a trailblazer for African-American women in academia.
