Lucy Maria Field Wanzer

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American physician and first woman to graduate from the University of California, San Francisco medical school


Lucy Maria Field Wanzer

Lucy Maria Field Wanzer (1841–1930) was a pioneering American physician and the first woman to graduate from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) medical school. Her determination and success paved the way for future generations of women in medicine.

Early Life[edit | edit source]

Lucy Maria Field was born in 1841 in Wisconsin, United States. Her family moved to California during the California Gold Rush, settling in San Francisco. From a young age, Lucy was determined to pursue a career in medicine, despite the societal norms of the time that discouraged women from entering the field.

Education[edit | edit source]

In 1873, Lucy applied to the University of California, San Francisco medical school. Despite facing significant opposition due to her gender, she was admitted after a lengthy battle with the university's administration. Lucy's perseverance and academic excellence earned her respect among her peers and professors.

Medical Career[edit | edit source]

After graduating in 1876, Lucy Wanzer became the first woman to earn a medical degree from UCSF. She established a successful private practice in San Francisco, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. Her practice thrived, and she became well-known for her dedication to her patients and her advocacy for women's health.

Advocacy and Legacy[edit | edit source]

Lucy Wanzer was a strong advocate for women's rights and education. She was instrumental in the founding of the San Francisco Women's Hospital, which provided medical care to women and children and offered training opportunities for female medical students. Her efforts contributed significantly to the acceptance of women in the medical profession.

Later Life and Death[edit | edit source]

Lucy continued to practice medicine and advocate for women's rights until her retirement. She passed away in 1930, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance and progress for women in medicine.

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