Margot Lee Shetterly

Margot Lee Shetterly, an American author and researcher, has garnered international recognition for her meticulous and evocative portrayal of untold African American histories. Born in Hampton, Virginia, Shetterly was uniquely positioned to explore the narratives of the unsung heroines of NASA's space program, given the proximity of her upbringing to Langley Research Center and her family's connections to the scientific community. Her father was a research scientist at NASA, and her mother an English professor, fostering an early appreciation for both scientific inquiry and the power of storytelling. Shetterly's background, combined with her education at the University of Virginia, laid a strong foundation for her future work in chronicling the contributions of African Americans in STEM fields. Shetterly's most acclaimed work, "Hidden Figures," catapulted her to the forefront of contemporary nonfiction writers, achieving critical and commercial success. This seminal book, which became an international bestseller and inspired an Academy Award-nominated film, meticulously documents the lives and achievements of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, three African American women mathematicians whose calculations were integral to the success of America's space missions. Through exhaustive research and compelling narrative, Shetterly brought to light their pivotal roles during a period of segregation and gender discrimination, earning her widespread recognition and numerous accolades, including the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work. Shetterly's writing is characterized by its clarity, depth, and commitment to historical accuracy, making complex scientific and mathematical concepts accessible to a broad audience. Her work is imbued with a profound respect for her subjects, often exploring themes of perseverance, equity, and the intersection of race and gender in American history. By bringing to the forefront the overlooked contributions of African American women, she has made an indelible contribution to the fields of history and social justice, establishing herself as a leading voice in the literary world dedicated to illuminating the rich tapestry of American achievement.