Mary Jackson

I refused to be invisible.

Every step forward, no matter how small, is still a step forward.

I saw challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.

We have to create the world we want to live in.

My voice mattered, and I was going to use it.

Don't let anyone tell you that you don't belong.

I was a woman in a man's world, and I was going to make my mark.

Every time we get a chance to get ahead, they move the finish line.

I plan to be an engineer at NASA, but I have to take the graduate-level courses in math and physics to qualify, and they're only offered at a segregated high school.

I was born ready.

We have to do something like this to get them interested in science. Sometimes they are not aware of the number of black scientists, and don't even know of the career opportunities until it is too late.

I refused to take no for an answer.

You have to believe in yourself and your abilities.

It's not the color of your skin, it's your determination and your will to succeed.

I'm going to be an engineer. I don't care what I have to do.

We need to let our children know that anyone can be a scientist if they want to be.

Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do something because of who you are.

Mathematics is the language of the universe. To understand it is to understand everything a little better.

The path isn't always clear, but you make it by walking.

They told me I needed special permission to attend those classes. So I got it.