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“I was raised by my parents to believe that it was my obligation to help those with less than I had. Although we were materially poor, the value of my family life was that there was a sense of achievement. We were taught to believe that it was possible to succeed, and that if you didn't, you didn't quit”. -Faye Wattleton |
Today we honor Alice Faye Wattleton (July 8, 1943). In 1978, Faye Wattleton became the first African-American and youngest President of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, a title she held until 1992. During her tenure at Planned Parenthood, she mobilized and publicized the fight for women’s rights to choice thus placing the organization at the forefront of the Pro-Choice movement and leader in sex/health education and accessible health services.
Wattleton received her education at Ohio State where, in 1964, she earned a Bachelors of Science Degree in nursing. She then received her Master of Science Degree in maternal and infant care with certification as a nurse-midwife from the illustrious Columbia University.
During her nursing career, Wattleton was exposed to the good and bad in the health field. Her viewing of several disastrous abortions, incited her to begin advocating for women’s rights. She began this advocacy work as a teacher of nursing in which she exposed many of her students to her experiences. Her battle took precedence upon her appointment to Planned Parenthood
After her tenure at Planned Parenthood, Ms. Wattelton co-founded the Center for Advancement of Women, an advocacy organization for women. On July 2, 2010 and after over 15 years of service, Ms. Wattleton resigned from her seat as President of the Center for Advancement of Women. Ms. Wattelton can be seen gracing the pages of many magazines including ESQUIRE and Harper’s Bazzar as well as various “Who’s Who” lists. She currently serves on numerous non-profit boards of directors including that of her alma mater, Columbia University.
We salute Ms Wattleton for her continued work within the non-profit sector and for the advancement of women’s rights.
<3 Jade
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