Today In Black History February 8th 1986: Debi Thomas became the first African-American Women's Singles of the U.S. Figure Skating Champion
On Feb. 8, 1986, figure skater Debi Thomas became the first African-American to win the Women's Singles of the U.S. National Figure Skating Championship competition while studying as a pre-med student at Stanford University. She was the first Black woman to win a national figure skating title.
Thomas also earned the distinction of becoming the first African-American to win a medal in any Winter Olympic sport when she won a bronze medal in the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary.
Thomas was born on March 25, 1967, in Poughkeepsie, New York, and began skating at the age of five. Dedicated to both sport and study, Thomas maintained her schedule as a university student throughout her skating career, earning her bachelor's degree in engineering in 1991. She retired from skating the following year and began medical school at Northwestern University, graduating in 1997.
She is currently a practicing physician in Virginia.
Major General Rogers’ life and career exemplified the highest values of the United States military—honor, courage, and selfless service. His battlefield heroism, exemplary leadership, and post-military contributions have left an indelible mark on the United States Armed Forces and American history. As a soldier, leader, and mentor, his story continues to inspire future generations to serve with distinction and uphold the values he so passionately defended.