04/15/2026
At a time when most African American women worked as domestics, Violette Anderson built a successful career as a court reporter (1905-1920) in Chicago, operating the only Black woman-owned stenography business in the city. Her passion for law led her to become the first African American woman to graduate from law school in Illinois (1920) and later establish a private law practice.
A pioneer in the legal field, Anderson made history as the first African American and first woman appointed Assistant Prosecutor in Chicago (1923) and, in 1926, became the first Black woman admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court — paving the way for future generations.
As the 8th National President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, she championed Finer Womanhood, leadership, and education, expanding Zeta’s presence in major colleges and universities. Her final act of sisterhood was bequeathing her summer home, Birch Haven, in Idlewild, Michigan, to Zeta.
Anderson’s legacy lives on, inspiring Zeta women in law and beyond. Happy Violette Neatley Anderson Day!
