Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, a pioneer in the fields of physics and education, has left an indelible mark on history with her remarkable achievements and groundbreaking contributions.
Jackson’s journey began with academic excellence in high school, paving the way for her admission to the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1964 as one of only 20 African-American students at the time.
During her tenure at MIT, Jackson stood out as a trailblazer, breaking barriers and making significant strides in the field of theoretical physics. In 1976, she joined the Theoretical Physics Research Department at AT&T Bell Laboratories, where her groundbreaking research laid the foundation for numerous technological innovations.
Her work contributed to the invention of revolutionary technologies such as the fax machine, the touch-tone phone, fiber optic cells, solar cells, and caller ID.
Among her many accomplishments, Dr. Jackson served as the Chairman of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), becoming the first woman and African-American to hold this prestigious position.
Her leadership at the NRC demonstrated her commitment to excellence and public service.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Jackson was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1999, celebrating her significant impact as a distinguished scientist and advocate for education and public policy.
Further solidifying her legacy, Dr. Jackson became the 18th president of the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in 1999, making history as both the first woman and African-American to lead the institution.
Under her visionary leadership, RPI has continued to excel as a center of innovation and academic excellence.
In 2009, Jackson was appointed to serve on President Obama’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, where she played a pivotal role in shaping public policy and advancing scientific research.
Her remarkable achievements culminated in the receipt of the National Medal of Science, the highest honor for scientific achievement in the United States. In a special ceremony at the White House, President Barack Obama presented Dr. Jackson with this prestigious award in 2016, recognizing her unparalleled contributions to the field of science and education.
Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson’s extraordinary journey serves as an inspiration to future generations, and this Black History Month we celebrate her!
