In 1849, Elizabeth Blackwell shattered gender barriers by becoming the first woman to earn a medical degree in the United States.

Blackwell co-founded the New York Infirmary for Women and Children, providing healthcare access to underserved communities. Blackwell aptly noted, "It is not easy to be a pioneer — but oh, it is fascinating! I would not trade one moment, even the worst moment, for all the riches in the world."

Blackwell's passion began when a deathly ill friend stated she would have received better care if her doctor was a female. Dr. Blackwell applied to more than 10 medical schools before gaining admission and was actually encouraged by one of her professors to disguise herself as a man.

After not being able to find work after graduation, Blackwell co-founded the New York Infirmary for Indigent Women and Children along with her sister.

Blackwell also went on to create the Woman’s Medical College of the New York Infirmary in 1867. Her efforts supported and encouraged generations of women hoping to pursue medical careers.