Did You Know? Honoring Black Nursing Pioneers
Black nurses have played a critical role in the history of healthcare in the United States. Despite facing systemic barriers to education, training, and leadership, Black nurses advanced patient care, strengthened communities, and helped shape modern nursing standards that remain in practice today.
As part of our Did You Know? Black History Month series, we honor Black nursing pioneers whose leadership, advocacy, and dedication continue to influence healthcare and nursing education.
Mary Eliza Mahoney
Mary Eliza Mahoney was the first Black professionally trained nurse in the United States. At a time when nursing education excluded most women of color, she established a lasting standard for professionalism, compassion, and patient-centered care. Her work paved the way for greater diversity and inclusion within the nursing profession.
Estelle Massey Osborne
Estelle Massey Osborne was a pioneer in nursing education and leadership. She worked to expand access to nursing schools for Black students and helped elevate nursing education to higher academic and professional standards. Her advocacy strengthened pathways for nurses to advance into leadership roles and influence healthcare systems nationwide.
Hazel Johnson-Brown
Hazel Johnson-Brown made history as the first Black woman to serve as Chief of the U.S. Army Nurse Corps and to attain the rank of Brigadier General. Her leadership shaped military nursing, professional development, and healthcare education, leaving a lasting legacy in both civilian and military medicine.
Why This Matters
The impact of Black nurses extends far beyond history. Their leadership, resilience, and commitment to care continue to shape how healthcare is delivered, taught, and improved today.
Black history is medical history — and these contributions deserve to be recognized.