Inez Beverly Prosser
Inez Beverly Prosser was an influential African American psychologist, born in 1897 in San Antonio, Texas. She was the first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. in psychology in the United States, achieving this milestone in 1933 from The University of Cincinnati. Her research focused on the educational experiences of African American students and the impact of segregated schools on their development.
Prosser's work highlighted the importance of understanding the psychological effects of racism and segregation. She believed that a supportive educational environment could significantly enhance the academic success of African American students. Tragically, her life was cut short in 1934 when she died in a car accident, but her contributions to psychology continue to be recognized today.