Evelyn Boyd Granville, a pioneering Black mathematician who earned a doctorate in mathematics from an American university, passed away on June 27 at the age of 99. She made significant contributions to the field of computers by assisting in calculating orbit trajectories and lunar-landing scenarios for the space program.
Dr. Granville’s expertise in analyzing complex equations and variables was highly valuable to NASA as it sought to utilize mainframe computers in the space race against the Soviet Union. She joined IBM in 1956 and played a crucial role in programming a data-processing unit for the company’s collaboration with NASA.
During her time at IBM, Dr. Granville worked on the Project Vanguard, which focused on satellites. She vividly remembered writing programs for devices the size of a grapefruit while they were up in the air. She later contributed to the Mercury program, which successfully launched John Glenn as the first American to orbit the Earth in 1962. Her work involved tracking orbital trajectories and ensuring safe reentry into the atmosphere.
Dr. Granville continued her involvement in the space program, providing technical support for the Apollo missions with North American Aviation and IBM. She assisted in calculations for Moon landing years before astronauts took their first steps on the lunar surface in 1969.
In an interview with the Tyler Morning Telegraph in Texas in 2000, Dr. Granville acknowledged that although there was a demand for talent, racial and gender barriers persisted in the math and science fields. She recognized the importance of showcasing the capabilities of African American women and fought against discrimination throughout her career.
Born in Washington in 1924, Evelyn Boyd experienced segregation and overcame societal limitations through education. After earning her doctorate from Yale University in 1949, she accepted a teaching position at Fisk University, a historically Black college, due to limited opportunities for Black women in academia at the time. She used her voice to advocate for the rights and recognition of Black women in her profession.
Throughout her six-decade career, Dr. Granville embraced change and reinvention. She taught at a public school in Texas, co-authored a widely used math textbook, and even pursued unconventional endeavors such as raising chickens and catfish.
When asked about her accomplishments, Dr. Granville emphasized that she paved the way for women in mathematics and fought against stereotypes surrounding African American women’s intelligence.
Despite her significant contributions to computer advancements, Dr. Granville expressed concerns about the overreliance on calculators in education. She believed that traditional teaching methods like long division and multiplication tables were essential for students to develop strong mathematical skills.
Evelyn Boyd Granville leaves behind a remarkable legacy as a pioneering mathematician, a champion for women and minorities in her field, and a symbol of perseverance and intelligence. Her dedication and contributions will forever be remembered.
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