Elizabeth Cushier

American physician and educator

Elizabeth Cushier (1837–1931) was a pioneering American physician and educator, known for her contributions to women's medical education and her role in advancing the status of women in the medical profession.

Early Life and Education

Elizabeth Cushier was born in 1837 in New York City. She grew up in a time when opportunities for women in higher education and professional fields were limited. Despite these challenges, Cushier pursued her interest in medicine, enrolling at the Woman's Medical College of the New York Infirmary, an institution founded by Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States.

Medical Career

After graduating in 1870, Cushier began her medical practice in New York City. She quickly became known for her skill and dedication, particularly in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Her work at the New York Infirmary for Women and Children was instrumental in providing medical care to underserved populations and in training future generations of women physicians.

The anatomy lecture room at the Woman’s Medical College of New York Infirmary

Academic Contributions

Cushier was not only a practicing physician but also a dedicated educator. She served as a professor at the Woman's Medical College, where she taught anatomy and surgery. Her teaching methods were innovative for the time, emphasizing hands-on experience and critical thinking. Cushier's commitment to education helped to elevate the standards of medical training for women and inspired many of her students to pursue successful careers in medicine.

Advocacy and Legacy

Throughout her career, Cushier was a staunch advocate for women's rights, particularly in the field of medicine. She worked tirelessly to improve the status of women physicians and to expand their opportunities in both education and practice. Her efforts contributed significantly to the gradual acceptance of women in the medical profession.

I Blackwell and Cushier House, Montclair, NJ

Later Life and Death

In her later years, Cushier continued to be active in the medical community, mentoring young physicians and participating in various professional organizations. She passed away in 1931, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to medicine and education.

Related Pages

• Elizabeth Blackwell
• Woman's Medical College of the New York Infirmary
• New York Infirmary for Women and Children