State’s First Black Female Judge outside Milwaukee County Sworn In
The honorable Nia Enemuoh-Trammell was sworn in on Oct. 12, becoming the sixth Black woman to serve as a judge in Wisconsin history. The new Dane County Circuit Court judge is the first Black woman to serve as a magistrate outside of Milwaukee County.
Trammell, who is Nigeria-born, was appointed by Gov. Tony Evers to serve on Branch 6, replacing Judge Shelley Gaylord, who resigned on Aug. 31. She told a group of admiring family and friends that she does not take her place in history for granted. She also said that she was keenly aware of the role the court plays in society and the difference that judges can make in administering justice.
“Our children need to know that all things are possible with a vision, a plan and preparation,” said Corinda Rainey-Moore, Community Engagement Manager for UnityPoint Health-Meriter. “Judge Trammell was well prepared for this moment! I could not be prouder.”
Trammell previously worked as deputy secretary for the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services; a senior administrative law judge for the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development; and as an attorney in private practice. She’s also served as chair of the board of directors for the Urban League of Greater Madison and as a commissioner on the City of Madison Equal Opportunities Commission. She is a UW Law School graduate.
Known for her passion for justice and fairness for all people, those who have worked closely with her said her experience, deep rootedness to Dane County, and community involvement positions her with an excellent understanding of the law to the bench.
“For some in the legal field, being a judge is one of the highest callings and for people like myself, we have a desire to serve as judges because we have a keen sense for justice,” said Trammell, quoted in the Madison Commons.
