Ethel Percy Andrus

Date of Birth: September 21, 1884

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: July 13, 1967

Biography

Ethel Percy Andrus was an influential American educator and activist, best known for founding the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). Born in San Francisco, California, she was a pioneer in advocating for the rights and welfare of retired individuals and senior citizens. She began her career in education, earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Chicago and a doctorate from the University of Southern California. Andrus served as a high school principal in Los Angeles, becoming the first woman in California to hold such a position. Her experiences in education and social work led her to recognize the challenges faced by retired teachers and seniors. In 1947, she founded the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA) to address their needs. Subsequently, in 1958, she established AARP to extend support to all retired individuals, regardless of their professional background. Under her leadership, AARP grew to become one of the largest and most influential advocacy groups in the United States. Andrus dedicated her life to improving the quality of life for older Americans, advocating for better healthcare, housing, and economic security. Her legacy continues to impact millions of people through the ongoing work of AARP.

5 Interesting Facts about Ethel Percy Andrus

1. Ethel Percy Andrus was the first woman high school principal in California.

2. She founded the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA) in 1947.

3. In 1958, she founded the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP).

4. Andrus was awarded the National Achievement Award in 1960 for her work with AARP.

5. She believed that retired persons could remain productive and contribute to society.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ethel Percy Andrus

1. “To serve, not to be served.”

2. “Old age is not a defeat but a victory, not a punishment but a privilege.”

3. “The challenge of retirement is to find new roles in which to continue to grow.”

4. “Aging is not ‘lost youth’ but a new stage of opportunity and strength.”

5. “There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Ethel Percy Andrus did not accumulate personal wealth from her activism; her highest net worth is not documented. Her focus was on social impact rather than financial gain.