Verina Morton Jones

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VMortonJones

Verina Morton Jones
Born	January 28, 1865 Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.
Died	February 3, 1943 New York City, New York, U.S.
Nationality	American
Occupation	Physician, activist
Known for	First African-American woman licensed to practice medicine in Mississippi

Verina Morton Jones (January 28, 1865 – February 3, 1943) was an American physician and activist. She was the first African-American woman licensed to practice medicine in Mississippi.

Early life and education

Verina Morton Jones was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to a family that valued education and community service. She attended local schools and later enrolled at Wellesley College, where she developed an interest in medicine. She went on to study at the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania, earning her medical degree in 1888.

Medical career

After completing her education, Jones moved to Mississippi, where she became the first African-American woman to be licensed to practice medicine in the state. She established a medical practice in Vicksburg, Mississippi, where she provided care to the underserved African-American community. Her work extended beyond her medical practice; she was also involved in public health initiatives and education.

Activism

In addition to her medical career, Jones was a dedicated activist. She was a member of the National Association of Colored Women (NACW) and worked alongside other prominent African-American women to advocate for civil rights and social justice. She was also involved in the National Medical Association, an organization dedicated to the advancement of African-American physicians.

Personal life

Jones married Walter Morton Jones, a fellow physician, and the couple had several children. They were both active in their community and worked together on various public health projects.

Legacy

Verina Morton Jones is remembered for her pioneering contributions to medicine and her tireless efforts to improve the lives of African-Americans in the South. Her work paved the way for future generations of African-American women in medicine.

See also

• African-American women in medicine
• National Association of Colored Women
• National Medical Association