John W. E. Bowen Sr.
John W. E. Bowen Sr. | |
|---|---|
| Born | December 3, 1855 |
| Died | July 20, 1933 (aged 77) |
| Resting place | South-View Cemetery |
| Signature | |
John Wesley Edward Bowen Sr. (December 3, 1855 – July 20, 1933) was born into American slavery and became a Methodist clergyman, denominational official, college and university educator. He was one of the first African Americans to earn a Ph.D. degree in the United States. He is credited as the first African American to receive the Ph.D. degree from Boston University, which was granted in 1887.