Honoring the Chiropractic Profession’s Heroines (Pt. 1)

This article, the first in a series honoring notable female doctors of chiropractic, introduces Dr. Anna Mae Foy as the "undisputed pioneer matriarch" of the profession. A student of chiropractic history initiated this research to recognize key women in areas like licensure, pediatrics, and education. Dr. Foy's immense contributions began shortly after receiving her DC degree in 1910.

She was instrumental in founding the Kansas Chiropractic Association (KCA) in 1911, serving as its first secretary and original lobbyist. Her lobbying efforts culminated in securing the world's first chiropractic licensing law in 1913. Dr. Foy herself received the first license issued under this law in 1915. Appointed to the first Kansas Board of Chiropractic Examiners, she served a record-breaking 27 years, including leadership roles as president and secretary-treasurer. Beyond licensure, she founded the Kansas School of Chiropractic in 1914. Dr. Foy's foresight ensured her historical significance was preserved through donations to research centers.