Anita Thigpen Perry, born May 5, 1952, in Haskell, Texas, was Texas’ First Lady from 2000 to 2015. She married Rick Perry, the governor after George W. Bush resigned, and was a health care and nursing advocate. Over her term, she initiated many state-wide health and wellness initiatives.
Early Life and Education
Anita was raised by her parents, family physician Joseph Eltidge Thigpen and Beunis Thigpen, as the youngest of four daughters. Texas Tech University gave her nursing degrees, preparing her for her future.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | May 5, 1952 |
| Birthplace | Haskell, Texas |
| Parents | Joseph Eltidge Thigpen, Beunis Thigpen |
| Siblings | Three (Joseph, Peggy, Emily) |
| Education | Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing from Texas Tech University |
Marriage and Family
Anita married Rick Perry in 1982 after years of dating from elementary school. Their children, Sydney and Griffin, have taken different educational and career paths.
| Family Member | Relationship |
|---|---|
| Rick Perry | Husband (married 1982) |
| Sydney Perry | Daughter |
| Griffin Perry | Son |
| Parents | Joseph and Beunis Thigpen |
Role as First Lady of Texas
Anita Thigpen Perry promoted breast cancer awareness, domestic violence prevention, and childhood vaccines while First Lady. The University of Texas Health Science Center’s Anita Thigpen Perry Endowment was her achievement.
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Breast Cancer Awareness | Promoted early detection and education about breast cancer |
| Domestic Violence Awareness | Focused on prevention and support for victims |
| Childhood Immunizations | Advocated for improved vaccination rates among children |
| Nursing Shortage | Addressed the critical shortage of nurses in Texas |
Professional Achievements
For 17 years, Anita Thigpen Perry was a qualified nurse before becoming First Lady. Texas Tech University’s nursing school was renamed in her honor for her dedication to nursing and health care.
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Nursing Career | Over 17 years in various nursing roles |
| Texas Tech University | Nursing school renamed in her honor in 2008 |
| Advocacy Work | Developed programs to support health and wellness among Texans |
Community Impact
In health care and education, Anita’s efforts have shaped Texas. Her efforts have garnered millions for state-wide family health programs.
| Impact Area | Contributions |
|---|---|
| Health Programs | Raised over $2 million for health-related initiatives |
| Community Services | Developed programs aimed at improving health and wellness |
| Educational Support | Provided scholarships and resources for nursing students |
Current Life and Legacy
After her husband’s governorship, Anita Thigpen Perry maintains her health care and charity work. Her impact as a health and community welfare champion endures.
| Current Endeavors | Details |
|---|---|
| Philanthropy | Continued involvement in health-related charities |
| Advocacy | Ongoing work to address health care challenges in Texas |
| Public Speaking | Shares insights on health care and women’s issues |
FAQ
What is Anita Thigpen Perry known for?
Anita Thigpen Perry is most recognized for being Texas’ longest-serving First Lady and her health care activism.
How many kids does Anita Thigpen Perry have?
Sydney and Griffin Perry are Anita Thigpen Perry’s children.
Which contributions did she make as Texas First Lady?
Texas public health was greatly impacted by her breast cancer awareness and domestic violence prevention efforts as First Lady.
Where was Anita Thigpen Perry educated?
Texas Tech University awarded her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in nursing.
Her post-First Lady involvement?
Anita continues to advocate for Texas communities through philanthropy and health.
