Faye Wattleton

Date of Birth: July 8, 1943

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Biography

Faye Wattleton is a distinguished American sociologist and reproductive rights advocate. Born on July 8, 1943, in St. Louis, Missouri, she is best known for her role as the president of the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) from 1978 to 1992. Wattleton was the first African American and the youngest president to lead the organization. During her tenure, she significantly expanded the organization’s advocacy efforts and visibility, especially in the areas of reproductive health and family planning. Wattleton earned her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Ohio State University and later completed her Master of Science degree in maternal and infant care, with a certificate in midwifery, from Columbia University. Her medical background and passion for public health led her to join Planned Parenthood, where she began her career as a clinic nurse and eventually rose to the highest leadership position. After leaving Planned Parenthood, Wattleton co-founded the Center for the Advancement of Women, a non-profit research and advocacy organization focused on the status of women in society. She has also served on various boards and has been an influential voice in the ongoing fight for women’s rights and health care access.

5 Interesting Facts about Faye Wattleton

1. Faye Wattleton was the first African American and the youngest person to serve as president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

2. She earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing from Ohio State University and her Master of Science in maternal and infant care from Columbia University.

3. Wattleton co-founded the Center for the Advancement of Women, a non-profit organization focused on women’s issues.

4. She has received numerous awards and honors, including induction into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1993.

5. Wattleton has been a vocal advocate for reproductive rights and family planning for over four decades.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Faye Wattleton

1. “Reproductive freedom is critical to a whole range of issues. If we can’t take charge of this most personal aspect of our lives, we can’t take care of anything else.”

2. “The most important thing women can do is to empower themselves with education and knowledge.”

3. “Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in spite of it.”

4. “We need to change the conversation about women’s rights and health care. It’s about equality and fairness.”

5. “Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.”