Born: 1915 (Siquirres, Costa Rica)
Died: 2010 (Laredo, Texas)
Biography:
Hughenna Louise Gauntlett was an American physician who made significant contributions to the medical field. Born on September 14, 1915, in Siquirres, Costa Rica, she was raised in Jamaica by her parents, Hubert Gauntlett and Ruth Spencer Gauntlett. Her grandmother, Mary Elizabeth Spencer, was a nurse midwife, which greatly influenced Gauntlett’s career path.
Gauntlett’s educational journey began at Atlantic Union College in Massachusetts. In pursuit of her dream to become a doctor, she enrolled at the College of Medical Evangelists, part of Loma Linda University, in 1946. Despite facing numerous challenges, Gauntlett remained determined. She was the only Black woman in her class of 96 students and had to live off-campus due to the lack of on-campus housing for Black women students. Undeterred by these obstacles, she completed her medical degree in 1951.
Following her graduation, Gauntlett served an internship at Sydenham Hospital in New York City. She then joined Kathleen Jones-King’s private practice in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. In 1959, Gauntlett and Jones-King played a vital role in a large polio vaccination clinic in South Los Angeles, demonstrating their commitment to public health.
After balancing marriage and motherhood, Gauntlett pursued a surgical residency program at California Hospital Medical Center. In 1968, she achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Black woman to be certified by the American Board of Surgery, a remarkable achievement in an era characterized by racial and gender discrimination in the medical profession.
Gauntlett’s dedication and expertise were recognized further when she became a fellow of the American College of Surgeons in 1970. In 1980, she was appointed as the chair of the general surgery department at California Hospital Medical Center, showcasing her leadership skills and expertise in her field. Gauntlett also played a vital role in the establishment of the Association of Black Women Physicians in 1982, where she served as a charter member.
After an illustrious career, Gauntlett retired in 1986, leaving behind a significant legacy in the medical field. Her contributions were acknowledged in 1993 when she received the Olga Jonasson Distinguished Member Award from the Association of Women Surgeons, a testament to her achievements and the respect she garnered from her peers.
Outside of her professional life, Gauntlett married fellow physician Frank Antonio Santos in 1952. Together, they raised twin sons, both of whom followed in their parents’ footsteps to become doctors. In 1955, Gauntlett became a United States citizen, solidifying her commitment to her adopted country.
Hughenna L. Gauntlett passed away on July 25, 2010, at the age of 94 in Laredo, Texas. Her groundbreaking accomplishments, perseverance in the face of adversity, and commitment to advancing healthcare made her a true pioneer in the medical field. Gauntlett’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of medical professionals, especially women and individuals from underrepresented communities, as she remains a trailblazer in women’s history.
Awards:
– Olga Jonasson Distinguished Member Award from the Association of Women Surgeons (1993)