Judge Chantelle Porter, the first African American woman judge in DuPage County, is a 2025 Women of Excellence honoree.
Judge Porter learned of her nomination from the president of her sorority chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Schaumburg Hoffman Estates Alumnae Chapter. Inspired by past ceremonies celebrating Black women’s achievements, the chapter leader wanted to ensure Porter received the same recognition.
But for the judge, the Women of Excellence honor isn’t just a personal achievement. Instead, it reflects the community’s collective strength that uplifts, supports and honors Black women making an impact.
Judge Porter acknowledges that she stands on the foundation built by generations of Black women who fought for a place in the legal profession.
“Their courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice paved the way for my success,” she said, acknowledging that her nomination is about continuing a tradition of excellence that breaks barriers and inspires future generations.
A Career Built on Advocacy
Before she took the bench, Judge Porter One served as a Guardian ad Litem, where she advocated for foster children in court—a career-defining moment. Beyond legal representation, the role required ensuring vulnerable children felt seen and heard.
“I had the privilege of walking alongside them during some of the most challenging moments of their lives, fighting for their safety, stability and wellbeing,” she reflects. The experience deepened her understanding of the child welfare system and reinforced her mission: a commitment to fairness, compassion and justice.
But the path she trod was not without obstacles. As a Black woman in law, Judge Porter often found herself the only one in the room who looked like her. She had to prove herself in ways others did not. But she would not let those challenges deter her. Instead, she used them as motivation.
“I have had to navigate spaces where I was often one of the few or the only ones who looked like me. I have had to prove myself in ways others did not. Rather than letting these obstacles deter me, I used them as motivation to work harder, remain steadfast in my values, and advocate for fairness and equity.”
Advice for the Next Generation
For young women aspiring to excel in the legal profession, Judge Porter offers this guidance:
- Find employment opportunities where you can thrive and be your authentic self.
- Reputation matters—operate with integrity and professionalism.
- Seek mentors and sponsors who will advocate for you and open doors.
- Surround yourself with those who challenge and push you toward excellence.
- Build relationships rooted in trust and reciprocity.
- Never be afraid to take up space—your voice and leadership matter.
Looking Ahead
As a Circuit Judge in Juvenile Court, Porter is focused on making meaningful change.
She is leading initiatives that support family preservation, reunification, restorative justice, and expanded access to mental health, substance abuse and domestic violence resources.
“My goal is to create a more supportive and rehabilitative system that addresses legal issues and provides families with the tools they need to heal and thrive,” she said.
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