University of Florida Archives

27-year-old is the first Black woman to earn PhD in Nuclear Engineering at top US University

New AfricaAugust 10, 2024August 11, 202409 mins

In an inspiring tale of resilience, determination, and groundbreaking achievement, Charlyne Smith, a 27-year-old Jamaican-born scientist, has made history by becoming the first Black person to earn a PhD in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Florida. This remarkable feat not only solidifies her place in the annals of academia but also opens doors for…

The First Black Woman to Earn a PhD. in Computer Science from the University of Florida

New AfricaDecember 28, 2023December 29, 202306 mins

In a historic achievement, Jasmine Bowers has become the first African American woman to earn a doctorate in Computer Science from the University of Florida, breaking barriers and setting an inspiring precedent for future generations. Bowers’ journey to this remarkable milestone began with a double major in Mathematics and Computer Science at Fort Valley State…