Community members are invited to help shape a new interpretive sign for Alice Ball Park, honoring the groundbreaking Seattle-born chemist whose scientific discovery transformed the treatment of Hansen’s disease (leprosy) in the early 20th century.
Although the park already bears Alice Ball’s name, organizers are now working to create a 24” x 36” educational sign that explains who she was and why her legacy matters. The public is invited to provide input through a brief online survey and by attending one of two upcoming open houses. The survey takes approximately 5–10 minutes and asks participants to weigh in on which historical facts, images, and design styles should be included on the park sign.
Survey link: https://forms.gle/tHyaCttEonz4yxjn8
Attend a Public Open House
Community members can also share feedback in person:
- Greenwood Senior Center — March 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- Greenwood Library — March 30, 2026 at 3:30 PM
Open house participation is designed to take 10 minutes or less, and attendees may drop in at any time during the session.
Alice Ball was born in Seattle in 1892 and became the first Black woman to earn a degree in pharmaceutical chemistry from the University of Washington. At just 23 years old, she developed what became known as the “Ball Method,” the first effective injectable treatment for Hansen’s disease. Although her work saved lives, she did not receive proper credit during her lifetime. Today, her legacy is increasingly recognized both locally and nationally.
Local historian Marilyn Morgan reflected on Ball’s impact:
“Alice Ball’s story celebrates that brilliance isn’t limited by gender, race, or age. We name places after people to remember what we value. Alice Ball’s story is a reminder that world-changing ideas often come from our own neighborhoods.”
Jamie Clausen, a local community advocate whose daughter helped lead the original park-naming effort, said:
“We don’t want this sign being designed behind closed doors. The park was named after a widespread community effort involving neighbors, local scientists, and those seeking to highlight Seattle’s Black history. We hope to get input from those same stakeholders as we design the sign to honor her in the park.”
Organizers hope the new sign will strengthen the park’s commemorative value and ensure visitors understand the extraordinary legacy behind its name. Community members of all ages are encouraged to participate.
For more information, contact:
Jamie Clausen
(206) 747-4141
[email protected]