Dr. Mary Elizabeth Carnegie (April 19, 1916 – 20 February 2008) was a distinguished educator and author in the field of nursing, known for breaking down racial barriers and preserving the history of African American nurses. She was born in Baltimore, Maryland, United States, received a diploma from the Lincoln School of Nurses, bachelor’s degree from West Virginia State College, master’s degree from Syracuse University, and doctor of public administration degree from New York University.
After receiving her bachelor's degree from West Virginia State College, Mary Carnegie took a job in a hospital in Richmond, Virginia. Carnegie became the clinical instructor at St. Philip Hospital School of Nursing. While working at St. Philip, Carnegie was exposed to a different social system in the nursing world in the south. She noticed that allow them to vote.
Since Mary Carnegie was so motivated and determined to put a dent in the racial equality in the nursing field, she eventually won over the FSNA's board after becoming a member (elected president of the FSACGN). Since she was so outgoing, vocal and determined to be heard in their meetings, even though her "spot" on the board was a more be seen and not heard from position, Carnegie made sure to voice her opinions. This eventually led to the board's decision to grant her full rights and responsibilities within the FSNA in 1949. [1]