Judith Love Cohen, the mother of actor and musician Jack Black, was an extraordinary woman. An accomplished aerospace engineer, her contributions to notable space missions, including Apollo 13, mark her as a significant figure in science and engineering.
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Table of Contents
Who is Jack Black?
Jack Black, born Thomas Jacob Black, is a well-known actor, comedian, and musician. Famous for his roles in films like “School of Rock” and “Kung Fu Panda,” Black has carved a unique space for himself in the entertainment industry.
Early Life of Judith Love Cohen
Judith Love Cohen was born into a Jewish family in Brooklyn, New York. Demonstrating an aptitude for mathematics from an early age, she decided to pursue engineering, a field where she often found herself the only woman in the room.
Judith Love Cohen’s Personal Life
Judith married fellow engineer Bernard Siegel in her early college years. They had three children, including computer scientist Neil Siegel. After their divorce, she married Thomas William Black and had Jack Black. Her third marriage was to David A. Katz.
Career of Judith Love Cohen
Cohen’s engineering career was groundbreaking. She worked on the Minuteman missile, the Hubble Space Telescope, and notably, the Apollo Space Program. Her work on the Abort-Guidance System was crucial in the safe return of Apollo 13.
Jack Black’s Mother
As an electrical engineer, Judith Love Cohen played a pivotal role in developing the Abort-Guidance System for the Apollo Lunar Module, instrumental in the Apollo 13 mission’s survival.
Post-Engineering Career
After retiring from engineering, Cohen founded Cascade Pass, a children’s multimedia publishing company. She published over 20 titles, focusing on encouraging young girls to pursue careers in science and engineering.
Recognition and Honors
Judith Love Cohen received the IEEE-USA Distinguished Literary Contributions Award in 2014 for her work in STEM education for children.
Her Legacy in Literature
Cohen and her husband David Katz published the “You Can be a Woman … ” series and the “Green” series, both aimed at promoting science and environmental awareness among children.
Conclusion
Judith Love Cohen was a trailblazer, balancing a stellar career with her role as a mother. Her dedication to her family and her profound impact on the fields of engineering and education make her an inspirational figure. Her story demonstrates the remarkable achievements possible when passion and determination are combined.
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FAQs about Judith Love Cohen and Jack Black
- What were Judith Love Cohen’s significant contributions to aerospace engineering?
- Judith was integral to several major aerospace projects, including the Apollo Space Program, where her work on the Abort-Guidance System played a crucial role in the safe return of the Apollo 13 mission.
- How did Judith Love Cohen balance her career and motherhood?
- Despite her demanding career, Cohen successfully managed her role as a mother. She raised successful children, including Jack Black, and maintained a close relationship with them throughout her life.
- What inspired Judith Love Cohen to start a children’s publishing company?
- After retiring from engineering, Cohen was motivated to encourage young girls to explore careers in science and engineering, leading her to establish Cascade Pass and publish educational children’s books.
- How has Jack Black spoken about his mother?
- Jack Black has expressed immense pride in his mother’s achievements and her inspiring career, often sharing anecdotes about her influence on his life and career.
- What legacy does Judith Love Cohen leave behind? Cohen’s legacy is one of breaking barriers and pioneering in a male-dominated field. She left a lasting impact on aerospace engineering and contributed significantly to STEM education through her children’s books, inspiring future generations to pursue careers in science and engineering.