A trailblazing pharmacist who broke racial and gender barriers, becoming the first African American woman to earn a pharmacy degree in Ohio and later establishing a successful pharmacy business. She paved the way for future generations of women and minorities in the field.
Ella P. Stewart, a pioneering African American pharmacist, broke down barriers in a male-dominated field, becoming one of the first African American female pharmacists in the United States.
Stewart was born Ella Nora Phillips on March 6, 1893, in Stringtown, Virginia, to Henry H. Phillips and Eliza T. Carr Phillips. Despite her parents being sharecroppers, she showed academic excellence from an early age. At just six years old, she was sent to live with her paternal grandmother in Berryville to attend grade school. This marked the beginning of her educational journey, which would eventually lead her to make history in the field of pharmacy.
Stewart's interest in pharmacy was sparked while working as a bookkeeper in a local pharmacy in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Despite facing challenges as a woman and an African American, she gained admission to the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy in 1914. Her determination paid off when she completed her degree in pharmaceutical chemistry (Ph.C.) in 1916, becoming the first black woman to graduate from Pitt's pharmacy program.
In the same year, Stewart passed the state examination, becoming the first African American female pharmacist in Pennsylvania and one of the first in the country. This remarkable achievement opened doors for future generations of African American women in pharmacy.
Stewart began her career as an assistant pharmacist for the Mendelsson Drug Company, owned by two of her classmates from the University of Pittsburgh. She later went on to own and operate a drugstore at the General Hospital in Braddock, Pennsylvania, solidifying her position as a respected pharmacist in her community.
Ella P. Stewart's trailblazing achievements paved the way for greater diversity and inclusivity in the field of pharmacy. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to African American women and girls, encouraging them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Stewart's remarkable story is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Stewart's personal life was marked by both joy and tragedy. She married Charles Myers, a classmate from Storer College, and had a daughter, Virginia, who tragically passed away at the age of three. This personal loss led to her divorce and a renewed focus on her career.
Stewart's contributions to the field of pharmacy have been recognized and celebrated through various awards and honors. Her remarkable achievements have secured her place in the annals of history as a pioneer and role model for future generations.
"The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved; loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves." - Ella P. Stewart
This quote, attributed to Stewart, reflects her strong sense of determination and resilience in the face of adversity, inspiring generations to come.
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