1 10 45 https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/1a16c67e9449deea453725c84af8ccf9.jpg c00a3631280a2c1ebfcd3748d717fb77 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1931 Birthplace Richmond Occupation Public Health Advocate Biographical Text Florence Neal Cooper Smith first learned about sickle cell disease as a child while reading books in her doctor’s office during the 1940s. After graduating in 1951 with a biology degree from Virginia Union University, she started a career as a medical technician specializing in burn research at the Medical College of Virginia (MCV, now VCU Medical Center). Spurred by her interest in sickle cell anemia, a genetic blood disorder that causes crippling pain episodes, she later completed graduate studies in pathology at MCV. In 1969 she organized Richmond’s first citywide survey to determine public awareness about sickle cell disease. After passage of the 1972 National Sickle Cell Anemia Control Act, she co-founded the Virginia Sickle Cell Anemia Awareness Program at MCV, one of the original 19 federally funded sickle-cell screening clinics in the nation. Regarded as the “Mother of Sickle Cell Disease” in Virginia, Smith and her advocacy helped pave the way in 1989 for the mandatory statewide testing of the disease in all newborns. Since retiring as program director in 1995, Smith has continued to advocate for a better understanding of and increased funding for the study of sickle cell disease at the local, state and national levels. In 2014, the MCV Foundation established the Florence Neal Cooper Smith Professorship, one of the few named for an African-American woman in the United States, to support cutting-edge research aimed at finding a cure for sickle cell disease. Nominated by Paul Brockwell Jr. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2026">2026</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of Florence Neal Cooper Smith. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Florence Neal Cooper Smith Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Description An account of the resource Florence Neal Cooper Smith has been a tireless advocate for the public awareness and treatment of sickle cell disease at the local, state and national levels. Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/3d06cd5c8425eedef8a6ed0de25d4d12.jpg 5ccdd83713cb452a046ff9caacaf8427 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1984 Birthplace Fairfax County Occupation Forensic Scientist Biographical Text Encouraged by her parents to explore whatever sparked her interest, Kelly L. Knight became passionate for all things related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). She received a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from George Washington University in 2006, and two years later, a master’s degree in forensic science from Virginia Commonwealth University. For almost a decade, she worked in forensic DNA laboratories in Virginia and with the Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division, where she qualified as an expert in criminal proceedings.  Her research expertise is in forensic serology and LCN (low copy number) DNA analysis methods. Turning to a career in higher education, Knight became a professor of forensic science at George Mason University, where she is also completing a doctorate in science education with a research focus on inclusive STEM pedagogies. In addition to guiding undergraduate students in the forensic science program, she co-founded and directs Females of Color and those Underrepresented in STEM (FOCUS), an outreach program intended to inspire middle- and high-school girls from Black, Indigenous and other communities of color to pursue careers in scientific fields. She has worked on numerous campus-wide initiatives related to diversity, equity, and social justice, such as the school's Anti-Racism and Inclusive Excellence Taskforce. Determined to transform expectations of who can be a scientist, Knight has built a strong social media presence to share her love of science. An American Academy of Forensic Sciences Fellow, Knight received George Mason's Teaching Excellence Award in 2020 and the Presidential Faculty Excellence Award for Diversity and Inclusion in 2024. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2025">2025</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. <a href="https://vimeo.com/1053442590/390c266857">Watch Kelly L. Knight's recorded remarks</a> shown at the Dominion Energy reception honoring the 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honorees on February 6, 2025. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of Kelly L. Knight. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Kelly L. Knight Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource Professor Kelly L. Knight uses her expertise in forensic science and her passion for mentoring to inspire the pursuit of STEM careers in underrepresented communities. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2025 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/3d6964203616453d243183ca231e55ff.jpg 5108b1bcfc1f5f4f34dd44e94207243d Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1960 Birthplace Manassas Occupation NASA Project Director Biographical Text Gregory L. Robinson experienced the challenges of desegregation in his Pittsylvania County schools, where he was also encouraged by dedicated and supportive teachers to further his love of math and science. With a football scholarship to Virginia Union University, he earned a degree in math along with a dual degree in electrical engineering at Howard University in 1983. Inspired by the experiences of several classmates, Robinson later joined the staff of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). He held various leadership positions at Goddard Space Flight Center, Glenn Research Center, and at NASA headquarters in the Science Mission Directorate. He has helped develop satellites to study the sun and systems for the space shuttle program and for missions to Mars. In 2018, NASA named Robinson director for the James Webb Space Telescope Program. A massive undertaking that included international teams of more than 10,000 scientists, engineers, and others, the telescope project faced technical difficulties and was behind schedule and over budget. Robinson’s leadership enabled the completion of NASA’s most complex space science observatory with the launch in December 2021 of the Webb telescope. This immensely powerful telescope has provided stunning data and discoveries about our solar system, the formation of stars and planets, and the evolution of galaxies in ways that have never before been possible. Robinson retired to his home in Manassas in July 2022, but continues to share his leadership strategies as a lecturer at Columbia University. Throughout his career Robinson has received numerous honors, including being named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2022. Nominated by Tony R. King, Prince George County. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2024">2024</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of NASA. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Gregory L. Robinson Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource Gregory L. Robinson oversaw the completion and launch of NASA’s transformational James Webb Space Telescope. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2024 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/542845eaac721ebe21157d2f2daaeb5f.jpg 495328a115cc9f37194a662aa84201b6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1946 Birthplace Mecklenburg County Occupation Dentist Biographical Text Dr. Erma L. Freeman was a passionate student growing up in Mecklenburg County, where she learned the value of taking pride in the quality of her work from her parents and her teachers. After graduating from St. Paul’s College in Lawrenceville and earning a master’s degree in biology at Virginia State College (now Virginia State University) in 1969, she taught school in Lynchburg for four years. With an interest in health care, she enrolled at the Medical College of Virginia (now Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry) to study dentistry. She was one of fewer than 10 women and fewer than 10 African Americans in the program of over 400 students, and in 1977 she became the first Black woman to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the college. Dr. Freeman operated her own practice near Petersburg for 20 years before working as a dentist for the Virginia Department of Corrections. Throughout her career she stressed the importance of good dental care to her patients’ overall physical and mental health. In 1993, Freeman was the first Black woman dentist appointed to the Virginia Board of Dentistry, and in 1994 she was the second Black woman to serve as president of the Old Dominion Dental Society. Since retiring, she has continued to educate communities in Mecklenburg and southern Virginia about dental hygiene and provided pediatric dental exams with the Colgate Dental Van. By engaging with children in minority communities, she hopes to inspire young people to believe they can achieve their goals regardless of their backgrounds and to not be limited by circumstances. In 2019 the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry honored Freeman with its First 100 Dentists of Color Trailblazer Award. Nominated by Sherri Bagley, Lawrenceville. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2024">2024</a> Strong Men and Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of Krystal Pearson. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Dr. Erma L. Freeman Subject The topic of the resource 2024 Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource The first Black woman to earn a dental degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Erma L. Freeman strives to increase diversity in the dental profession. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2024 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Community Leadership and Philanthropy Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/6b52f0525577cc68462f3e203251b041.jpg 2f5e3a052340a630c6ce60d5d54e97c8 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1967 Birthplace Prince William County Occupation Engineer & NASA Executive Biographical Text Growing up in Virginia Beach, Christyl Chamblee Johnson absorbed her parents' advice that she could achieve any goal she set for herself. While studying physics at Lincoln University, in Pennsylvania, she had an internship at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Langley Research Center, in Hampton, where she worked on laser systems for remote sensing of the atmosphere. After earning a B.S. from Lincoln in 1987 and an M.S. in electrical engineering from Pennsylvania State University in 1990, Johnson joined NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) as a lead engineer and project manager. Her knowledge and leadership skills led to positions overseeing various programs at Langley involved in developing advanced systems for a variety of missions. At NASA's headquarters she managed missions of the Office of Earth Science before becoming deputy in the Office of the Chief Engineer, and then joined the Office of the Administrator overseeing technical mission areas and operations at all ten field centers. She also continued her own education, earning a Ph.D. in systems engineering from The George Washington University, in Washington, D.C., in 2012. After serving as executive director of the National Science and Technology Council at the White House in 2008–2010, Johnson became deputy director for technology and research investments at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. She shapes Goddard's missions of the future in planetary, astrophysics, heliophysics, and earth science, and leads the establishment of a portfolio of technology investments to enable those science missions. Johnson is passionate about education and outreach and is an outspoken advocate for women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). She established a STEM Girls Night In overnight program for girls, and serves on the board of Women in Tech, an international organization fighting the gender gap in STEM fields. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2022">2022</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. Bibliography Photograph courtesy of NASA. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Christyl C. Johnson Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource Dr. Christyl C. Johnson charts future missions at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center while also advocating opportunities for women in science and technology. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2022 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Honoree Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/e51a95a5ba5d0d704eb0c883409ada76.JPG 0a608607b70e19c18c7dd3fc04d66d61 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1952 Birthplace Richmond Occupation Physician and Community Health Advocate Biographical Text After studying biology at North Carolina’s Winston-Salem State University, Lerla G. Joseph earned her medical degree in only three years from Wake Forest University, also in Winston-Salem, in 1977. She served her residency in internal medicine at Howard University Hospital, in Washington, D.C., and then worked as an internist for the U.S. Public Health Service at a community clinic in Detroit. Joseph joined a medical practice in Richmond in 1983, and four years later opened her own private practice in Charles City County. Recognizing the lack of comprehensive medical care in some Richmond communities, Joseph expanded her practice into the city during the 1990s. She offers a diagnostic center, disease prevention training, and other services to provide "a center of healing" for her patients. In 2012 she founded the Central Virginia Coalition of Healthcare Providers, one of the nation's few minority-owned accountable care organizations that bring together general practitioners, specialists, and other medical professionals in the region to provide accessible, high quality, and affordable care for Medicare recipients. Joseph's passion for helping people in need has also led her to organize annual short-term missions to Haiti, where she has provided medical treatment and supplies since 2005 and for which she received the International Trends and Services Award from the Eastern Area Links, Inc., in 2017. Dedicated to supporting her community, Joseph has served on boards of the Richmond Community Hospital and Bon Secours Health System. In 1994 she was the first woman elected president of the Richmond Medical Society and later served as the first female president of the Old Dominion Medical Society, where she helped raise more than $60,000 in scholarships for Black medical students. She is an ardent supporter of health care for all.    Nominated by Tony R. King, Prince George County. <a href="https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/strong-mw-2021">2021</a> Strong Men and Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. Bibliography Image courtesy of Lerla G. Joseph. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Lerla G. Joseph Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource A dedicated physician, businesswoman, and community health advocate, Dr. Lerla G. Joseph provides high-quality, value-based health care to underserved populations in central Virginia. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2021 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Community Leadership and Philanthropy Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/d53b68d7d91b9bf5cadc6c5337c411da.jpg 5338aeefaa28c6a7592b0d5bd950f593 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1964 Birthplace Hampton Occupation Chemical Engineer and Inventor Biographical Text A native of Chattanooga, Tennessee, Dr. Joycelyn Simpson Harrison is a 1987 graduate of Spelman College, in Atlanta, where she earned her degree in chemistry. That same year she also earned a degree in chemical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology, from which she later received her MS (1989) and PhD (1993) in chemical engineering. Harrison's research specialty has been in piezoelectric materials, electro-active polymers that move or change shape when exposed to electrical stimulation and have potential applications as synthetic muscles in robotics and for use in outer space. She has written book chapters and more than 30 technical papers, and jointly holds 23 patents involving these materials, which can facilitate the repair of satellites and improvements in such various devices as robots, heart pumps, and audio speakers. Harrison worked at NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton as a research engineer and later as chief of the Advanced Materials and Processing Branch. She was part of the team that developed THUNDER (Thin-Layer Composite-Unimorph Piezoelectric Driver and Sensor) technology, which received R&D Magazine's annual R&D 100 Award as one of that year's best innovations in research and development. For her work, NASA awarded Harrison the Exceptional Achievement Medal in 2000 and the Outstanding Leadership Medal in 2006. National Women in Color honored Harrison with a Technology All-Star Award in 1998 and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers presented Harrison with its Minority Affairs Eminent Engineer Award in 2011. In 2009 she became the manager of the Low Density Materials program at the Air Force Office of Scientific Research in Arlington County. There she oversaw research and development of lightweight materials for use in aerospace technologies. Harrison is currently associate research dean in the College of Aeronautics and Engineering at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/strong-mw-2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2020</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. Bibliography Image courtesy of Joycelyn S. Harrison Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Joycelyn S. Harrison Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource Research scientist, mentor, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) champion Joycelyn Harrison is an award-winning chemical engineer and prolific inventor. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2020 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/d5ebc473b7048d010a1baf7bf80fb06a.tif 0ea2a9ad131321493854c7fc19ff85c4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1930 Birthplace King George County Occupation Mathematician and Technology Pioneer Biographical Text Born in rural Dinwiddie County, Gladys Mae Brown West graduated first in her high school class, earning her a scholarship to Virginia State College (later Virginia State University), where she earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics in 1952. After teaching in public schools, she completed a master’s degree from Virginia State in 1955, and the following year began working at the Naval Surface Warfare Center at Dahlgren. She was the second African-American woman hired at the base, among only four African-American employees in total. Admired by her colleagues for her skill in calculating complex mathematical equations, she excelled in programming for computers. West emerged as an integral part of the team that developed the modern Global Positioning System, tirelessly collecting data from orbiting satellites and developing mathematical algorithms for supercomputers to process precise surface elevations. She later became project manager for the radar altimetry data processing project of Seasat, the first satellite designed for remote sensing of the Earth’s oceans, for which she received a commendation. West published numerous papers and made presentations on her work at national and international conferences before retiring in 1998. Throughout her career West continued her education and in 2000 received a PhD in public administration and policy affairs from Virginia Tech. In 2018 the British Broadcasting Corporation named her to its 100 Women program, which annually honors influential women from around the world. That same year the General Assembly of Virginia passed a joint resolution honoring West for her pioneering career and contributions to technological development. UPDATE: Gladys West passed away on January 17, 2026. <div class="element" id="lesson-plan-item-type-metadata-bio-text"> <div class="element-text"> <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/strong-mw-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2019</a> Strong Men & Women in Virginia History honoree, Library of Virginia and Dominion Energy. </div> </div> <div class="element" id="lesson-plan-item-type-metadata-bibliography"></div> Bibliography Image Courtesy of Gladys B. West. Death Date 2026 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Gladys B. West Subject The topic of the resource Strong Men and Women in Virginia History Description An account of the resource A pioneer in mathematics, Gladys B. West was an instrumental hidden figure in the development of the modern Global Positioning System. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2019 Strong Men & Women in History Honoree Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/af549b1e3b0c1a2a11951310278bd1d9.jpg a3737e896a49a68e9fef850a0991b1d5 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birth Date 1912 Birthplace Norfolk Death Date 2005 Occupation Endocrinologist Biographical Text A native of Baltimore, Maryland, Georgeanna Seegar Jones (July 6, 1912–March 26, 2005) received her medical degree in 1936 from Johns Hopkins University, where her work researching pregnancy hormones advanced the understanding of reproductive medicine and was later used in developing home pregnancy tests. In 1938 she became the first full-time reproductive endocrinologist at a medical school. For the next four decades, she also served as the chief physician at the Gynecological Endocrine Clinic at Johns Hopkins Hospital and director of the facility's Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology. In 1939 Jones established a Division of Reproductive Endocrinology at John Hopkins, which made great advances in the burgeoning field. In 1978 Jones and her husband, the physician and surgeon Howard Jones, retired to Norfolk and began teaching at Eastern Virginia Medical School. About that time they assisted a British team in developing the world's first in vitro fertilization process. Seeking to duplicate the IVF process in the United States, Jones and her husband established a clinic at EVMS, which led to the 1981 birth of the first baby in the United States conceived through in vitro fertilization. Expanding the clinic, in 1983 they established what today is known as the Howard and Georgeanna Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine. Ever the teacher and scientist, she authored textbooks and articles that served as the foundation for students, physicians, and scientists around the globe. The recipient of many honors during her long career, Georgeanna Seegar Jones mentored numerous female physicians and is credited with inspiring generations of women in the medical profession. <a href="https://edu.lva.virginia.gov/changemakers/va-women-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2019</a> Virginia Women in History honoree, Library of Virginia. Bibliography Image Courtesy of Eastern Virginia Medical School. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Georgeanna Seegar Jones Subject The topic of the resource Virginia Women in History Description An account of the resource A pioneer in the field of reproductive endocrinology, Georgeanna Seegar Jones helped lead pathbreaking research into fertility treatments for women. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2019 Virginia Women in History Honoree Science and Medicine https://www.lva.virginia.gov/collections/educator-resources/changemakers/files/original/9086c1eb7f2f8723978724783be239e0.jpg 9a0af37b1ad9028972a9556b875ede91 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Contemporary United States Description An account of the resource This era is, in large part, a study of the United States as a global power – politically, economically and militarily. The detente with the Communist China under Nixon begins a shift in our “Domino Theory” in Asia. The collapse of the Soviet Union, the overthrow of communist governments in Eastern Europe, and the end of the Cold War and the nuclear arms race also changed how the United States interacted with Europe. At the same time, intervention and actions increased in our own hemisphere and in the Middle East. Terrorism also became a driving force behind foreign policy. Politically, there was a shift away from liberalism for much of this time period. Political scandals such as Watergate and Iran-Contra were treated differently than previous scandals, thanks in large part to an increase in television coverage. The governmental role in the economy, environmental protection, social welfare, and more shifted greatly during this time period and that role, and its scope, are still being debated today. Socially, this time period saw for the first time immigration primarily from Asia and Central America. A new wave of reform movements promoted environmental, feminist, and civil rights agendas. There was also a resurgence of religious evangelicalism. Technological advances once again redefined not only the economic landscape of America, but also the lives of everyday citizens. Learn more in the National U.S. History Content Standards. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1968-Present Person An individual. Birthplace Eastern Shore Biographical Text Raised on his family's farm in El Salvador, he came to the United States to study agriculture. He is currently a graduate student in plant pathology at Virginia Tech's Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Painter, Virginia. Watch excerpts from Jose's interview about: <ul> <li><a href="https://youtu.be/KubjzbME1uQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Belonging</a> (1:40)</li> <li><a href="https://youtu.be/n-qCLuKRtZ8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Challenges</a> (1:13)</li> </ul> Bibliography Photograph courtesy of Virginia Humanities, photography by Pat Jarrett. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Jose Francisco Garcia Subject The topic of the resource New Virginians Description An account of the resource A native of El Salvador, Jose Francisco Garcia is currently a graduate student at Virginia Tech's Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center. Science and Medicine