Date: 1892
Credit Line: Gift of Alumnae Association
Means of Accession: Donation
Made/Created
Artist
G.W. Pettit
Dimensions
Dimension Description
Framed
Height
41 in
Width
37 in
Dimension Description
Unframed
Height
30 in
Width
25 in
Interpretative Labels
Label Type
Exhibition Label
Label
Rachel Bodley was a pioneer in chemistry whose specialty was the natural sciences. She became the third Dean of the Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1874 and was awarded an honorary M.D. shortly thereafter. Her acceptance of the Chair of Chemistry in 1865 set two precedents: She was the first non-Philadelphian to accept a faculty post, and she was the first woman chemist to serve on the College staff.
Many changes occurred during Rachel Bodley’s tenure as Dean. Particularly notable was the expansion of the curriculum and construction of a new College building, dedicated in 1875 as part of the College’s twenty-fifth anniversary celebration. Additionally, Dean Bodley took a special interest in medical missionary work, encouraging students to take their talents abroad, and welcoming foreign students who might bring their new-earned skills back to their countries of origin.
