Winifred Burks-Houck
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Winifred Burks-Houck | |
|---|---|
| Born | August 20, 1950 |
| Died | May 6, 2004 (aged 53) |
| Alma mater | |
| Occupation | Environmental chemist |
Winifred Burks-Houck (August 20, 1950 – May 6, 2004) was an environmental organic chemist and the first female president of National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers (NOBCChE), serving from 1993 – 2001.[1][2]
Winifred Burks-Houck was born on August 20, 1950, in Anniston, Alabama, the daughter of Mary Emma Goodson-Burks and Matthew Burks.[2] She was the great, great, great-granddaughter of abolitionist Harriet Tubman.[2]
Burks-Houck pledged as a member of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority as an undergraduate student at Dillard University.[3] She served in various leadership roles during her time in alumnae chapter, holding positions as the president from 1987 – 1989, vice-president and chair of fundraising.[3][4] In honor of her scientific work, Burks-Houck was named a Project Cherish Honoree at Delta Sigma Theta's 43rd annual national convention.[2]
Education
Burks-Houck began her education in Anniston, Alabama, having attended both elementary and high school in the city.[3] Burks-Houck continued her education and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry from Dillard University followed by a Master of Science Degree in Organic Chemistry from Atlanta University.[5]