Dr. Katherine Johnson: Pioneering Mathematician

Slide 1

Title: Dr. Katherine Johnson: A Mind Among the Stars

Speaker Notes Dr. Katherine Johnson was a brilliant mathematician who played a pivotal role in the early days of the American space program. Her calculations were critical to the success of several NASA missions, including the launch of Alan Shepard, the first American in space, and John Glenn’s historic orbit around the Earth. Throughout her career, Dr. Johnson faced and overcame numerous challenges due to both racial and gender discrimination, leaving a legacy of perseverance and excellence in the field of science.

Slide 2

Title: Early Life and Education

• Born Katherine Coleman in 1918 in West Virginia
• Grew up in a family that valued education
• Excelled in math and science fro