Born: 1950 (Lansing, Michigan)
Biography:
Dr. Alexa Irene Canady, born on November 7, 1950, is a retired American medical doctor who made significant contributions to the field of pediatric neurosurgery. She was born and raised in Lansing, Michigan, and her parents, Elizabeth Hortense Canady and Dr. Clinton Canady, Jr., instilled in her the importance of education and hard work from a young age.
Canady’s mother, a former national president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and her father, a dentist, both attended Fisk University, where they met and married. Growing up as one of the only two African-American students in her school, Canady faced prejudice, but her parents’ teachings encouraged her to rise above it.
After graduating from high school with honors, Canady pursued higher education at the University of Michigan. She earned both her bachelor’s degree and medical degree from the prestigious institution. Following her medical studies, Canady completed her residency at the University of Minnesota in 1981, specializing in neurosurgery.
In 1981, Canady achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first black woman to become a neurosurgeon. This achievement followed the trailblazing path set by Ruth Kerr Jakoby, who became the first American woman to be board certified in neurosurgery in 1961. Canady’s pioneering achievement shattered barriers and opened doors for future generations of women and people of color in the field of neurosurgery.
Canady focused her expertise on pediatric neurosurgery and became the Chief of Neurosurgery at the Children’s Hospital in Michigan in 1987. Throughout her career, she demonstrated a deep dedication to her patients, prioritizing their well-being and providing compassionate care. In addition to her surgical responsibilities, Canady also conducted research and served as a professor of neurosurgery at Wayne State University.
Recognized for her exceptional contributions, Canady received numerous acclamations. In 1989, she was inducted into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame, honoring her significant achievements and impact in the medical field. In 1993, she received the American Medical Women’s Association President’s Award, further acknowledging her exceptional contributions and accomplishments.
After a successful career in Michigan, Canady retired from her position as chief of neurosurgery in 2001. However, she continued to contribute her skills and expertise on a part-time basis at Pensacola’s Sacred Heart Hospital, Florida, until her full retirement in January 2012.
Throughout her life, Dr. Alexa Canady has exemplified strength, perseverance, and determination. Her trailblazing journey as the first black woman neurosurgeon has made an indelible mark on the field of medicine. She has served as an inspiration to aspiring medical professionals, particularly women and individuals from underrepresented communities, showing that with hard work and dedication, barriers can be overcome.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame in 1989
– Received the American Medical Women’s Association President’s Award in 1993.