Ruth Mary Rogan was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, to John Edward Rogan and Bernadette Elizardi Rogan. Her upbringing fostered a love of learning; her father was a civil engineer, and her mother, an artist, instilled in her a strong appreciation for education and intellectual pursuits from a young age.

Ruth's exceptional intellect allowed her to accelerate through her education. She attended Isidore Newman School, where she excelled in her studies. Her high school graduation happened at the young age of 14, showcasing her early aptitude for science and learning.