Historic Appointment: Shequeena McKenzie Becomes First Black Female Judge in McComb

McComb, MS (BuzzReport) — At just 28 years old, Shequeena McKenzie has etched her name into the history books, becoming the first Black female judge to serve in the city of McComb, Mississippi — a milestone that reflects both personal determination and broader progress within the community.

McKenzie described the moment as deeply emotional and rewarding, the culmination of years of discipline, faith, and perseverance.

“It was a surreal moment because I work hard, I have faith,” McKenzie said. “The next thing you know you start reaping the benefits of the things you have invested into. It was definitely a full-circle moment for me.”

A McComb native, McKenzie said her ambition to pursue a career in law began early in life, rooted in a desire to create meaningful change. She attended the University of Southern Mississippi, where she studied political science with a minor in human rights — an academic path that aligned with her passion for justice and advocacy.

She later relocated to Jackson to attend Mississippi College School of Law, where she earned her law degree and graduated cum laude. During that time, McKenzie also gained hands-on legal experience by practicing law part-time, further shaping her understanding of the legal system.

Her motivation, she said, was never to simply critique the system from the outside.

“I went to law because I did not want to talk about what wasn’t being done,” McKenzie explained. “I did not want to sit there and dwell on the negativity. I asked myself what I could do to help out the world.”

McKenzie credits part of her inspiration to Vice President Kamala Harris, whose own groundbreaking achievements helped redefine possibilities for women of color in leadership roles. Now, as a judge, McKenzie hopes her story will serve as a beacon of encouragement for the next generation.

She offered a message to young women who may one day follow a similar path:

“Sometimes you will enter the room and no one will look like you,” she said. “Do not let that overcome your abilities. You belong in that room. You deserve to be in that room. It is a mindset you have to get. Once you get that mindset, do not let anyone stop you.”

McKenzie’s historic appointment not only marks a personal victory, but also signals a step forward for representation in the local justice system — one that she hopes will inspire lasting impact both inside and outside the courtroom.