Catherine Mae McKee McCottry

Catherine Mae McKee McCottry (February 3, 1921– February 6, 2018) was the first female African American physician in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the first female African American obstetrician and gynecologist in Charleston, South Carolina. She worked to desegregate hospitals, becoming the first African American physician to work in Charleston hospitals.

Early life and education Catherine Mae McKee McCottry was born to Violet and John Miller McKee on February 3, 1921 in Charlotte, North Carolina. , one of the largest medical schools for African Americans in the United States. He was a Charleston native who graduated from Meharry Medical College. The same year, McCottry established her own private obstetrics and gynecology practice. The practice was located near the Morris Street Business District, a historic center for Charleston’s African American and immigrant professionals. The Women Who Make a Difference Award, accompanied by letters of commendation from President Bill Clinton, Senator Ernest Hollings, Senator Strom Thurmond, and Congressman James Clyburn A City of Charleston Proclamation declaring May 23rd as Dr. Catherine McCottry Day The Charleston NAACP Honorary Circle and Trailblazer Award, honoring her “vision, courage, and fortitude,” and recognizing her as a model of perseverance and service South Carolina Hall of Fame Inductee