02/10/2026
This Black History Month, we honor Mary Eliza Mahoney (1845–1926) — the first professionally trained African-American nurse in the United States.
At a time when opportunities in healthcare were deeply restricted, Mary Eliza Mahoney broke barriers with skill, compassion, and perseverance. After graduating from the New England Hospital for Women and Children in 1879, she dedicated her career to improving patient care and advocating for equality in nursing.
Her legacy lives on in every nurse and caregiver who shows up, serves with dignity, and pushes the profession forward—often under challenging circumstances.
At MyShyft, we’re proud to support the healthcare professionals who carry that legacy every day. Thank you for the care you provide and the history you help shape. 💙