Otelia Cromwell
Otelia Cromwell (April 8, 1874 - April 25, 1972) was the first African-American graduate of Smith College, graduating in 1900. The college later began the tradition of canceling afternoon and evening classes in her honor every November as a venue to discuss race and diversity.
After graduating from the Miner Normal School (also known as the Normal School for Colored Girls), Cromwell taught in Washington, D.C. schools for several years before attending Howard University. In 1898 she transferred to Smith College, and graduated in 1900. Cromwell continued teaching for a few years before resuming her education; she earned a master's degree from Columbia University in New York City, and received her Ph.D from Yale University in 1926.[1] In doing, so she was the first African-American woman to receive a Yale degree.
Cromwell went on to became a professor at Miner Teachers College, later becoming head of the literature department.[2] She wrote a variety of books and articles, including a biography of Lucretia Mott. Cromwell retired in 1944.
A private high school in Washington D.C., Cromwell Academy, was named in honor of Otelia and her brother John by its founder, Ruby Woodson. Founded in 1972 to provide college preparatory education to high potential students of all social and economic backgrounds, the academy opened its doors in the educational annex of Peoples Congregational Church. The school closed its doors in 1985.
See also
References
- ↑ "Otelia Cromwell Digital Exhibit". Smith College Libraries.
- ↑ "District of Columbia, Report of the Board of Education, 1926-1927".
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