Dixy Lee Ray, American biologist and politician; 17th Governor of Washington (b. 1914)

Dixy Lee Ray: A Pioneer in Science and Politics

Dixy Lee Ray (September 3, 1914 – January 2, 1994) was a formidable and groundbreaking American figure who left an indelible mark on both the scientific community and the political landscape. She served as the 17th Governor of Washington from 1977 to 1981, holding the distinction of being the state's first female governor. Known for her unique personality, often described as idiosyncratic, and her undeniable intellect, she was often lauded as "ridiculously smart." Her tenure as governor was notably defined by her leadership during the catastrophic 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, a pivotal moment in the state's history. Throughout her career, Ray remained a staunch advocate for atomic energy, a position deeply rooted in her scientific background.

Early Life and Scientific Endeavors

Academic Excellence and Research

Ray's intellectual journey began with a solid academic foundation. She was a distinguished graduate of Mills College and later earned her doctorate in biology, specifically zoology, from Stanford University. Her academic pursuits led her to the University of Washington, where she became an associate professor in 1957. Her research focused significantly on marine biology, establishing her as a respected scientist in a field where women were still a rarity in leadership roles.

Demonstrating her hands-on approach to scientific inquiry, Ray served as chief scientist aboard the schooner SS Te Vega during the internationally significant International Indian Ocean Expedition. This major multidisciplinary research program (1959-1965) aimed to explore the geology, oceanography, and biology of the Indian Ocean, underscoring Ray's prominent role in global scientific collaboration.

Transforming the Pacific Science Center

Prior to her direct involvement in federal policy, Ray showcased her administrative prowess and visionary leadership by revitalizing the Pacific Science Center in Seattle. Under her astute guidance, the institution, which was then facing severe financial difficulties and nearing bankruptcy, underwent a profound transformation. She steered it away from being merely a traditional, exhibit-oriented museum towards becoming a dynamic, interactive learning center. This innovative shift not only modernized its educational approach but also successfully restored its financial solvency, cementing its role as a vital hub for public science engagement.

Federal Leadership and Policy Influence

Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)

In 1973, President Richard Nixon recognized Ray's scientific acumen and appointed her as chairman of the United States Atomic Energy Commission (AEC). This appointment came at a critical juncture, as the nation grappled with energy independence and the nascent environmental movement was gaining traction. As the head of the powerful AEC, responsible for both promoting and regulating nuclear power, Ray initiated significant internal reforms. Notably, she championed the separation of research and development from safety programs, a strategic move aimed at enhancing the independent oversight of nuclear safety. Her decisive leadership also saw the removal of Milton Shaw, the long-standing and influential head of the reactor development division, signaling her intent to assert control and implement her vision for the agency.

Brief Tenure at the State Department

Following her tenure at the AEC, President Gerald Ford appointed Ray as Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs in 1975. This role positioned her at the forefront of crucial environmental diplomacy and ocean policy at a global level. However, her time in this position was brief. Ray resigned just six months later, citing a lack of meaningful input into departmental decision-making. This move underscored her characteristic bluntness and her demand for substantial influence and autonomy in any role she undertook.

Governorship of Washington

Election and Key Policies

In 1976, Dixy Lee Ray embarked on a new chapter, successfully campaigning as a Democrat for Governor of Washington. Her victory was remarkable, particularly given her famously blunt and sometimes confrontational style, which contrasted with traditional political approaches. As governor, she pursued policies that reflected her pragmatic and pro-development stance. She controversially approved allowing supertankers to dock in Puget Sound, balancing potential economic benefits against significant environmental concerns regarding oil spills. She also ardently supported unrestrained growth and development throughout the state, believing it essential for economic prosperity. Consistent with her earlier career, she continued to express unwavering enthusiasm for atomic energy, advocating for its role in meeting the state's power needs.

Responding to the Mount St. Helens Eruption

One of the most defining challenges of Governor Ray's term was the unprecedented volcanic activity of Mount St. Helens. On April 3, 1980, in response to escalating seismic activity and initial steam-and-ash emissions from the volcano, she proactively declared a state of emergency. This crucial measure prepared the state for a coordinated emergency response, which proved vital when Mount St. Helens catastrophically erupted on May 18, 1980. Governor Ray's leadership during this natural disaster involved coordinating extensive relief efforts, managing evacuation zones, and addressing the massive scale of ashfall and widespread destruction that impacted much of the state.

Legacy and Retirement

Despite her impactful tenure, particularly during the Mount St. Helens crisis, Dixy Lee Ray's distinctive style and some of her controversial policy stances contributed to her political defeat. She retired from public office after losing her bid for re-election in the Democratic nomination later that year. Dixy Lee Ray's legacy is that of a trailblazer – a woman who ascended to the highest levels of scientific and political leadership, challenging conventions and leaving a lasting imprint on Washington state and national policy, particularly concerning science, energy, and environmental management.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dixy Lee Ray

Who was Dixy Lee Ray?

Dixy Lee Ray was an American scientist, academic, and politician who served as the 17th Governor of Washington from 1977 to 1981. She was the first woman to hold this office and was known for her background in marine biology and her strong support for atomic energy.

What was Dixy Lee Ray's background in science?

She held a doctorate in zoology from Stanford University and was an associate professor at the University of Washington. She also served as chief scientist aboard the SS Te Vega during the International Indian Ocean Expedition and significantly revitalized the Pacific Science Center.

What federal positions did Dixy Lee Ray hold?

Before becoming governor, she was appointed Chairman of the United States Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) by President Richard Nixon in 1973. Later, she served briefly as Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs under President Gerald Ford.

What was Dixy Lee Ray's role during the Mount St. Helens eruption?

As Governor of Washington, she declared a state of emergency on April 3, 1980, in anticipation of the volcano's major eruption. She played a critical role in coordinating the state's response to the catastrophic eruption of May 18, 1980, including managing evacuations and relief efforts.

What were Dixy Lee Ray's key policy stances as Governor?

During her governorship, she approved supertanker docking in Puget Sound, advocated for unrestrained growth and development, and consistently championed the use of atomic energy.