Senate Resolution No. 47 honors the life and legacy of Dr. Mildred Fay Jefferson, a pioneering physician, educator, and activist who passed away on October 15, 2010, at the age of 84. Born in Pittsburg and raised in Carthage, Texas, Dr. Jefferson made history as the first African American woman to graduate from Harvard Medical School in 1951. Throughout her distinguished medical career, she became the first female general surgeon at Boston Medical Center and served as a professor at Boston University's School of Medicine. Dr. Jefferson was also a prominent figure in the Boston Surgical Society and was deeply engaged in the intersection of medicine, ethics, and public policy.

In addition to her medical achievements, Dr. Jefferson was a passionate advocate for the right-to-life movement, founding the Massachusetts Citizens for Life and the Right to Life Crusade, Inc. She actively campaigned for pro-life candidates and served on the boards of numerous organizations opposing abortion and euthanasia. Her unwavering commitment to her beliefs and her eloquent advocacy made her a significant voice in the pro-life movement, inspiring many. The Texas Senate pays tribute to Dr. Jefferson's remarkable contributions and legacy, adjourning in her memory.