Katherine Johnson may be a familiar name, or it may not be. Either way, her contributions to the world of science will never be forgotten. Born in 1918 in West Virginia, Katherine G. Johnson stands today as an icon for women and people of color. Despite the limited educational opportunities for African Americans at the time of her schooling, her talents propelled her to new heights. She skipped several grades, beginning high school at age 10 and graduating college at 18.
She is most recognized for her work as a human computer. Starting in 1952, Johnson began working in aeronautics, and later performed calculations that would send people into orbit, and finally to the moon in 1969.
Johnson deftly contributed to issues of inequality with her achievements, while significantly pushing the boundaries of science. Her talents were undeniable, and helped to show what women and people of color were capable of. For these reasons, President Barack Obama awarded Johnson the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015. Her story was also told in the book and feature film, Hidden Figures, in 2016.
In 2018, the year of Johnson’s 100thbirthday, a bronze statue as well as a scholarship will be created in her name at her alma mater, West Virginia State University. The statue, erected by fellow WVSU alum and sculptor Frederick Hightower, will be unveiled August 25thof this year.
Johnson’s story is an inspiring reminder of how far one can go with a bright mind, a desire to learn, and careful dedication. The honor to come before her 100thbirthday is well-deserved, and will hopefully spread her story further, encouraging young girls and anyone who feels the world is stacked against them, to keep changing the world.
