Elbert Frank Cox
Mathematician, first African American PhD
Born
Died
1969
56 years ago — 74 years old
Category
Thinkers & Philosophers
Country
United States
Links & References
A mathematician and academic, he earned the first PhD in Mathematics awarded to an African American in 1925 from Cornell University. A long career in academia included positions at various institutions, focusing on teaching and research in mathematics. Active in promoting education and opportunities for African Americans in higher education, he contributed to the development of mathematics as a field during the mid-20th century. His legacy includes mentoring countless students and advocating for diversity in mathematics.
First African American to earn a PhD in Mathematics
Taught at historically black colleges and universities
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