February 01, 2024
Dr. Alfreda Johnson Webb - First Black Woman Vetenarian
Girl did you know, Alfreda Johnson Webb was the first Black female veterinarian in the United States,
Born on February 21, 1923, in Mobile, Alabama, Alfreda Johnson Webb grew up with a passion for science. She earned her Bachelor of Science (BS) degree from Tuskegee Institute in 1943.
In 1949, Dr. Webb made history by becoming the first Black woman licensed to practice veterinary medicine in the United States. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the Tuskegee Institute School of Veterinary Medicine, marking a groundbreaking achievement.
Dr. Webb's pursuit of academic excellence continued as she obtained a master's degree (M.S. in anatomy) from Michigan State University in 1950. She returned to Tuskegee, where she began her career as an instructor in anatomy in 1950.
In 1959, Dr. Webb transitioned to Greensboro, North Carolina, taking on the role of a professor of biology at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University (NC A&T). Her commitment to education extended to her role as a professor/coordinator of Laboratory Animal Science from 1977 until her retirement.
In 1972, Dr. Webb made history again by becoming the first African-American woman in the North Carolina General Assembly. Appointed in 1971 by Governor Robert W. Scott, she served until 1978 and played a vital role in minority affairs.
Dr. Webb contributed significantly to the Democratic Party, serving as a Member at Large on the Democratic National Committee, North Carolina, from 1972 to 1980 and she served on various committees, including the North Carolina Council on Sickle Cell Syndrome and the Board of the NC Center for Public Policy Research. Her commitment to community welfare was evident throughout her career.
She was Honored by the North Carolina General Assembly in 2013, along with other African American legislators and she Alpha Kappa Alpha Award for Political Excellence and the Distinguished Alumni Award from Tuskegee University.
Dr. Webb's legacy lives on through the Dr. Alfreda Johnson Webb Scholarship Award established in 2016 by the North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. Alfreda Johnson Webb's life journey, marked by groundbreaking achievements and dedicated service, continues to inspire generations in both veterinary medicine and legislative spheres.
1 comment
i love alfreda webb
paige
February 22, 2024