Mary Eliza Mahoney was the first African American woman to become a registered nurse in the United States. She graduated from the New England Hospital for Women and Children in 1879, paving the way for future generations of nurses. Mahoney's achievement was significant during a time when both race and gender posed barriers to professional advancement. In addition to her nursing career, Mahoney was an active advocate for the rights of African Americans and women. She co-founded the National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses in 1908, which aimed to promote the professional development of Black nurses and improve healthcare for African American communities.