Laurie Schwab Zabin

Laurie Schwab Zabin (April 9, 1926– May 11, 2020) was an American public health researcher and professor who studied adolescent reproductive health, family planning, sexual behaviors, and abortion trends. Her research and advocacy work made her a leading figure in this field.

Personal life Zabin was born in New York City in 1926 to Jewish-American parents Carol Heilner and Armand Schwab, respectively. Armand immigrated to the United States from Alsace-Lorraine, France and sold hats as an occupation.

Education Zabin attended The Dalton School from kindergarten to the 12th grade.

In 1975, she applied to the PhD program in Population Dynamics at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, formerly known as Johns Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health at the time of her attendance. Despite not having a solid academic science background, Laurie had substantial credentials and leadership experiences as a long-time volunteer with Planned Parenthood. She even met the chair of the PhD program, W. Henry Mosley, to discuss her interests in gaining research and educational experience within the field of public health. She was accepted to the program and eventually earned her PhD in 1979 at the age of 53. She also taught public health students at Johns Hopkins as a professor and continued to publish research articles on reproductive health and family planning.

Recognition

1992 Irwin M. Cushner Award by the National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association. This award recognizes healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers who make notable contributions within the field of family planning.