At a time when Black women were systematically excluded from the medical field, Mary Eliza Mahoney shattered racial barriers and became the first Black registered nurse in the United States.
Her story is one of resilience, determination, and an unyielding commitment to healthcare.
Born in 1845 in Boston, Massachusetts, to formerly enslaved parents, Mahoney dreamed of becoming a nurse. However, in 19th-century America, Black women were denied entry into most nursing programs.
Undeterred, she worked for 15 years at the New England Hospital for Women and Children, taking on roles as a cook, janitor, and nurse’s aide. Her persistence paid off when she was finally accepted into the hospital’s rigorous nursing program.
Mahoney’s path was far from easy—of the 42 students in her class, only four graduated. In 1879, she made history by becoming the first Black woman to earn a nursing license in the U.S.
A Career Built on Excellence
Despite her qualifications, racism kept hospitals from hiring her. Instead of giving up, Mahoney became a highly sought-after private nurse, known for her skill, professionalism, and compassionate care.
Her success not only proved that Black women belonged in medicine but also inspired others to follow in her footsteps.
Recognizing the need for Black nurses to have representation, Mahoney co-founded the National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses (NACGN) in 1908, an organization dedicated to fighting racial discrimination in nursing.
She spent the rest of her life advocating for healthcare equity and the inclusion of Black professionals in medicine.
A Lasting Legacy
Mahoney’s contributions continue to inspire generations. The Mary Mahoney Award, established by the American Nurses Association, honors individuals who advance racial equality in nursing.
Because of her groundbreaking achievements, thousands of Black nurses have been able to enter and excel in the field of medicine.
Mary Eliza Mahoney didn’t just make history—she changed the future of nursing forever.
