Shirley Ann Jackson begins her term as AAAS president.
On February 16, 2004, Shirley Ann Jackson began her term as president of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), stepping into a key role within the world’s largest general scientific society. Her presidency at AAAS marked another first for African American women in scientific leadership positions.
Jackson’s presidency was characterized by her visionary approach to science advocacy and public policy, emphasizing the integration of scientific innovation in societal development, and promoting diversity in scientific communities, thereby enhancing the organization's influence both nationally and internationally.