Lucy Hobbs becomes the first woman in the world to receive a doctorate in dentistry

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In 1866, Lucy Hobbs became the first woman in the world to receive a doctorate in dentistry. She received her degree from the Ohio College of Dentistry where she previously was denied admission because of her gender.

She then applied to the Ohio College of Dentistry, where again, she was refused admission because of her gender. Again, she studied under a private program with a professor from the school. She applied to the dentistry program again, and was again rejected, so she opened her own practice in Cincinnati in 1861.

Today the American Association of Women Dentists recognizes outstanding women in the dental profession with the Lucy Hobbs Taylor Award, the most prestigious honor the organization bestows.

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Source: Harvard University
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