What historic contribution did Sr. Mary Kenneth Keller make?

Sr. Mary Kenneth Keller is recognized for her groundbreaking achievement in computer science as the first person to earn a PhD in the field. She completed her degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1965, paving the way for future generations of women in technology and academia. Her work was instrumental in establishing computer science as a legitimate and significant area of study in higher education. This milestone not only highlights her personal accomplishments but also signifies an important moment in the history of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), encouraging more women to pursue careers in technology, programming, and academia. This role in advancing the field of computer science and her dedication to education have left a lasting impact on both academia and the technology sector.