Shirley Ann Jackson

Early Life

Shirley Ann Jackson was born August 5, 1946. She was born in Washington. She studied bees and wasps at the age of ten. That encouraged her interest in science. She also graduated top of her class 1964.

Family Life

She had two parents, Beatrice and George Jackson. Her father helped her on the projects. Her parents encouraged her to read before kindergarten. This also sparked her interest in science.

Education and Career

Shirley Jackson went to M.I.T. and was the first African-American to get a doctorate degree in 1973. She had a job as a physicist. Her research helped invent the touch-tone telephone, portable fax, caller ID, solar cells, call waiting, and fiber optics. After that, she was chosen to be president of R.P.I. She was also awarded the National Medal of Science and Engineering. 

Impact on the field

Shirley Ann Jackson's impact on her field made the field more advanced. She is also a role model in the field. Her research, career, and inventions have greatly impacted the field of STEM and education. Due to her contributions, telecommunication is faster and better and offers us access to a variety of technologies today. Shirley Ann Jackson's actions affected the field by helping make things that we take for granted. She also inspires us to reach our goals.  

1. She sits on major companies like IBM.                          

2. Her husband is a professor at R.P.I.

3. She was elected a fellow of the American Physical Society. 

1. Curious: Jackson's interest in science began when she studied bumblebees in her backyard.

2. Determined: Jackson's determination helped overcome many obstacles.

3. Passionate: Her love of physics and nature motivated her to pursue her goals in science and education.

4. Trailblazer: Jackson was the first African American to lead a top-ranked research at the University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

5. Role model: Jackson is seen as a role model by many in the academics and STEM fields.