The First African-American Woman College Instructor

Sarah Jane Woodson Early (November 15, 1825 - August 1907) was an American educator, temperance activist and author. She was the first African-American woman college instructor.

In 1858 Woodson became the first African-American woman college instructor. She joined the faculty of Wilberforce University, established by white clergymen in collaboration with the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME). Wilberforce closed for two years during the Civil War. After its reopening, Ms. Woodson returned to the institution for two years as Preceptress of English and Latin, and Lady Principal and Matron. In 1863 Woodson wrote and delivered a speech entitled, "Address to The Youth." The speech was delivered before a meeting held by the Ohio Colored Teachers Association.[2] Due to the successive considerations of Bishop Daniel Payne and the historian Philip Foner, the work has been preserved.

Three of Woodson's brothers were AME ministers. Lewis Woodson, her eldest brother, served on the founding Board of Directors of Wilberforce University. Her brothers John and Thomas were killed by slavecatchers while working on the Underground Railroad.

Ms. Woodson taught in schools in several communities and was appointed principal of schools in Xenia, Ohio. She taught in a school in Hillsborough, North Carolina, which was established by the Freedmen's Bureau.