Dorothy Vaughan
An American mathematician who worked for NASA and was one of the agency's first African-American managers.
Most quoted
"I saw the writing on the wall and I got into the computer business. I'm not going to sit around and wait for them to tell me what to do."
— from Biography/Interviews, 1960
"Girls are capable of doing everything men are capable of doing. Sometimes they have more imagination than men."
— from Interview, 1980
"I always said, 'If you're going to do something, do it right.' Especially if it's sending someone into space."
— from Fictionalized accounts/interpretations
All quotes by Dorothy Vaughan (374)
The work here is vital, and I am proud to be a part of it.
It's not always easy, but I find strength in my faith and my community.
We must adapt or be left behind. That's the reality of progress.
My love for mathematics has always been a guiding force in my life.
I hope my children will have more opportunities than I did.
The fight for civil rights is not just for us, but for future generations.
Learning new things keeps the mind sharp and the spirit young.
The challenges are many, but so are the rewards of meaningful work.
We are on the cusp of something extraordinary with these machines.
Family is the anchor that holds me steady in turbulent times.
Every small step forward is a victory in the larger battle for justice.
I find great satisfaction in solving complex problems.
Never underestimate the power of a determined mind.
The future belongs to those who are willing to learn and adapt.
My children inspire me to be a better person every day.
We must continue to push for what is right, no matter the obstacles.
The work is demanding, but it is also incredibly rewarding.
I believe in the strength of women working together.
These new machines will change everything. We must embrace them.
The love of my family is my greatest treasure.
Contemporaries of Dorothy Vaughan
Other Mathematicss born within 50 years of Dorothy Vaughan (1910–2008).