Jane Bolin was a trailblazer in the legal field and the first African American woman to graduate from Yale Law School. Born in 1908 in Poughkeepsie, New York, Bolin was the daughter of an educator and a homemaker, both of whom placed a strong emphasis on education and community service.

Bolin attended Wellesley College, where she excelled in her studies and earned a bachelor's degree in history. After graduation, she worked in social services for a time before deciding to attend law school. She was admitted to Yale Law School in 1928, where she faced numerous challenges as the only African American woman in her class. However, she persevered and graduated with her law degree in 1931.

After completing law school, Bolin returned to New York City and began her legal career, working as an assistant corporation counsel in the city's law department. She also became involved in various organizations, including the National Association for the Study and Prevention of Tuberculosis and the Urban League.

In 1939, Bolin was appointed to the bench as a judge in the Domestic Relations Court in New York City, making her the first African American woman to hold such a position in the United States. She served in this role for over 40 years, and during her tenure, she made a significant impact on the legal system and the lives of those who appeared before her.

Bolin was known for her fair and impartial approach to the law, as well as her commitment to using the law to help those in need. She was particularly concerned with the welfare of children and worked to ensure that their rights and best interests were protected in court. She was also a strong advocate for women's rights and worked to ensure that women had equal access to the legal system and the justice it provided.

Throughout her life, Bolin faced discrimination and prejudice, but she never let it deter her from pursuing her goals and making a difference in the world. She was a role model for countless women and people of color, inspiring them to strive for excellence and make a positive impact in their communities.

In recognition of her many contributions, Bolin received numerous honors and awards, including the National Association for the Study and Prevention of Tuberculosis's Gold Key Award, the National Urban League's Award of Merit, and the National Association of Women Lawyers' Presidential Citation. She was also inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame.

Jane Bolin's legacy continues to inspire and impact people today, and her life serves as a testament to the importance of determination, hard work, and a commitment to justice. She paved the way for countless women and people of color in the legal field, and her impact will be felt for generations to come