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.

Ruth continued her academic pursuits with impressive speed, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Newcomb College (Tulane University). Even amidst the challenging circumstances of the Great Depression, she dedicated herself to her studies, displaying resilience and commitment to her chosen field.

Continuing her education, Benerito obtained a Master's Degree in Physics from Tulane University, further solidifying her foundation in the sciences. She showed a commitment to understanding the complexities of both physics and chemistry.

During World War II, Ruth worked as a chemist for the Southern Regional Research Center of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in New Orleans. While the exact nature of her wartime research is not entirely clear, it marked the beginning of her long and impactful career with the USDA, setting the stage for her future innovations in textile chemistry.

Ruth Rogan married Frank Benerito, a union that provided her with personal support as she continued her scientific career. She became Ruth Rogan Benerito, continuing to make strides in her research.

Despite balancing a career and family life, Ruth earned her Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from the University of Chicago, completing her studies while continuing her work at the USDA. This accomplishment demonstrated her exceptional dedication and intellectual capacity. Her dissertation focused on cryoscopy in sulfuric acid, showcasing her expertise in complex chemical systems.

This period marked the peak of Benerito's groundbreaking research at the USDA. She led a team that developed a process for cross-linking cotton fibers to create wrinkle-resistant, permanent-press fabrics. This innovation revolutionized the textile industry, significantly reducing the need for ironing and improving the durability of cotton clothing. While she contributed to the general area, Benerito always maintained the discovery was a team effort, and her work improved on prior research into resin treatments.

Ruth received the Federal Woman's Award, one of many recognitions for her ground-breaking research. The award, recognizing exceptional contributions to the US Federal Government, affirmed the impact and importance of her work on wrinkle-free cotton and beyond.

After a long and distinguished career at the Southern Regional Research Center, Ruth Benerito retired from the USDA. However, her passion for science and innovation remained undiminished, and she continued to stay active in the scientific community. She held 55 patents during her career.

In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the field of invention, Ruth Benerito received the Lemelson-MIT Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious award solidified her legacy as a pioneering scientist and inventor whose work had a profound and lasting impact on society.

Ruth R. Benerito passed away at the age of 97 in Metairie, Louisiana. Her death marked the end of an era for a remarkable woman whose scientific achievements transformed the textile industry and improved the lives of countless people. Her legacy as a brilliant chemist and dedicated inventor continues to inspire future generations of scientists and innovators.