January 17, 2022

Who Is Shirley Ann Jackson, The African-American Who Invented The Technology Responsible For The Touch-Tone Phone?

Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson is a phenomenal woman with an amazing track record. She graduated with excellent grades in high school, then entered the popular Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as one of 20 African-American students there.

Jackson arrived at MIT in the fall of 1964 as one of just a handful of Black students. Later – in 1976, Dr. Jackson joined the Theoretical Physics Research Department at AT&T Bell Laboratories.

At Bell, Dr. Jackson conducted a number of successful theoretical physics experiments and made breakthrough scientific research that enabled others to invent the fax machine, the touch-tone phone, fiber optic cells, solar cells, and the technology behind caller ID and call waiting.

She also reportedly conducted breakthrough basic scientific research that enabled others to invent the portable fax, the touch-tone telephone, solar cells, fiber optic cables, and the technology behind call-wasting.

Here are some of her other achievements:

Served as Chairman of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)

In 1995, President Bill Clinton appointed Jackson to serve as Chairman of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, making her both the first woman and the first African-American to ever occupy the role.

Inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame

In 1999, Dr. Jackson was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame, recognized for “her significant contributions as a distinguished scientist and advocate for education, science, and public policy.”

Became Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s 18th President

On July 1, 1999, Jackson became the 18th president of the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Dr. Jackson is both the first woman and the first African-American to serve in this position. She still serves as RPI’s president and has a contract in the position through 2020.

Appointed to President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology

In 2009, Jackson was appointed to serve on President Obama’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, which is a 20-member advisory group dedicated to public policy.

Received the National Medal of Science

In 2014, Jackson was presented with the National Medal of Honor, which is the highest honor for scientific achievement bestowed by the U.S. government. Jackson received the medal on May 19, 2016, in a special ceremony at the White House, where she was presented the award by President Barack Obama.

Read More: Black History Month - The Tech Pioneers You Need To Know About
Abbianca Makoni

Abbianca Makoni is a content executive and writer at POCIT! She has years of experience reporting on critical issues affecting diverse communities around the globe.

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