First woman to serve on the Illinois Supreme Court, known for her trailblazing legal career and advocacy for women's rights.
Mary Ann McMorrow is renowned for being the first woman to hold the esteemed position of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Illinois, serving from 2002 to 2006. This trailblazing feat marked a significant milestone in the state's 173-year history, cementing her legacy as a pioneer in the judicial system.
Mary Ann Grohwin was born on January 16, 1930, to Roman and Emily Grohwin, in a Roman Catholic household on the northwest side of Chicago. She received her education at Rosary College (now known as Dominican University) and later pursued her law degree at Loyola University Chicago School of Law, graduating in 1953.
After being admitted to practice law in Illinois, McMorrow joined the law firm of Riordan & Linklater. Her remarkable career took a significant turn when she was appointed Assistant States Attorney of Cook County, where she became the first woman to prosecute felony cases in the county. This marked the beginning of her illustrious judicial career.
In 1976, she was elected as a Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County, followed by her assignment to the Illinois Appellate Court in 1985. Her exceptional leadership skills led to her election as the first woman to serve as chairperson of the Executive Committee of the Appellate Court.
After a remarkable career spanning over five decades, Mary Ann McMorrow retired from the bench on July 5, 2006. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations of lawyers, judges, and public servants, serving as a shining example of determination, perseverance, and excellence.
Chief Justice McMorrow was an active member of the Illinois State Bar Association and the Chicago Bar Association, further solidifying her commitment to the legal community.
Mary Ann McMorrow's remarkable life and career serve as a testament to her unwavering dedication to the pursuit of justice and her tireless efforts to pave the way for future generations of women in the legal profession.
93 Years Old
A pioneering Supreme Court Justice and women's rights advocate who championed gender equality and became a cultural icon.
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First female Supreme Court Justice in the United States, serving from 1981 to 2006 and playing a crucial role in many landmark cases, particularly those involving gender equality and reproductive rights.
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Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, serving since 2010 and known for her liberal stance and influential opinions on key cases. She is the fourth woman to serve on the Court.
