Sylvia E. Mathis

Sylvia Elizabeth Mathis (July 7, 1949 – October 22, 1983) was the first African-American woman to become a Special Agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation. After serving for three years, Mathis left the agency, later dying in a car accident.

Biography Mathis was born on July 7, 1949. She was raised in both North Carolina and Florida. In 1972, she graduated with a bachelors degree in Political Science from New York University, and in 1975 earned her J.D. from the University of North Carolina School of Law. Her law school dean encouraged her to apply to the FBI Academy.

Prior to joining the FBI Academy, Mathis shared, “…I am interested in delving into the relation of defending of rights and enforcement of rights. Going into the FBI seemed like a natural step.” Mathis arrived at the FBI Academy on February 17, 1976. Cassandra Chandler, first African-American woman to lead an FBI field office, first woman to be the FBI's national spokesperson