Sophia B. Jones

Photo of Sophia B. Jones

Sophia B. Jones was an African American physician and educator who made significant contributions to the field of medicine and the education of African American women in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She is best known for being the first African American woman to graduate from the University of Michigan Medical School.

Early Life

Sophia B. Jones was born in Canada in 1857. Her family later moved to the United States, where she pursued her education. She attended the University of Michigan, where she earned her medical degree in 1885, becoming the first African American woman to do so.

Medical Career

After graduating, Jones began her medical practice in Kansas City, Missouri. She was dedicated to providing medical care to underserved African American communities. Her work in Kansas City was pioneering, as she was one of the few African American women physicians at the time.

Contributions to Education

In addition to her medical practice, Jones was deeply committed to the education of African American women. She joined the faculty of the Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, where she taught courses in hygiene and public health. Her efforts were instrumental in promoting health education among African American women, a demographic that had limited access to medical knowledge and resources during that period.

Legacy

Sophia B. Jones's contributions to medicine and education have had a lasting impact. She broke barriers for African American women in the medical field and played a crucial role in advancing health education for African American communities. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of African American women in medicine and education.

See Also

• University of Michigan Medical School
• Spelman College
• African American women in medicine
• History of African Americans in medicine

External Links

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