Irma Anderson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Irma Anderson
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| Mayor of Richmond, California | |
| In office 2001–2006 |
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| Preceded by | Rosemary Corbin |
| Succeeded by | Gayle McLaughlin |
| City Council of Richmond, California | |
| In office 1993–2000 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | 1930/1931 |
| Died | (aged 93) Richmond, California, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Booker T. Anderson Jr. |
| Alma mater | University of California, Berkeley |
Irma L. Anderson (born 1930 or 1931 – died January 28, 2024) was an important American politician. She served as the elected mayor of Richmond, California, from 2001 to 2006. She was a member of the Democratic Party.
Before becoming mayor, Irma Anderson was a member of the Richmond City Council. She served on the council from 1993 to 2000. She made history as the first African American woman to be on the Richmond City Council. She was also one of the first African American women to be elected mayor of a major city in California.
Early Life and Education
Irma Anderson was a very smart student. She was the best student, or valedictorian, in her high school class. She went to Cornell University and earned degrees to become a nurse. Later, she studied at the University of California, Berkeley. There, she earned a degree in Public Health.
Career in Public Service
In 1954, Irma Anderson moved to Richmond, California, with her husband, Booker T. Anderson Jr. Her husband also served as Mayor of Richmond from 1973 to 1974. They had two sons, Ahmad and Wilbert.
Irma Anderson started her career as a nurse. She worked for the Contra Costa County Health Department. She eventually became the Director of Public Health Nursing. This role showed her dedication to helping people stay healthy.
As Mayor of Richmond
As mayor, Irma Anderson worked hard for the people of Richmond. She teamed up with the West Contra Costa Unified School District. Together, they created many after-school programs for kids throughout the city. These programs helped students learn and grow after school hours.
In the 2006 mayoral election, Irma Anderson ran for re-election. She lost to Gayle McLaughlin, a councilperson from the Green Party, by a very small number of votes.
Later Life
Irma Anderson passed away on January 28, 2024, at her home in Richmond. She was 93 years old. She died from pancreatic cancer. She is remembered for her pioneering work and dedication to public service in Richmond.
See also
- Gayle McLaughlin
- Rosemary Corbin
- Mayors of Richmond, California
- Politics of the United States
