Sylvia Elizabeth Mathis (July 7, 1949 – October 22, 1983) was the first African-American woman to become a Special Agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

After serving for three years, Mathis left the agency, later dying in a car accident.

In 1972, she graduated with a bachelors degree in Political Science from New York University, and in 1975 earned her J.D.

[2] After completing her training, Mathis received her badge and credentials as an FBI Special Agent on June 2, 1976.

Her first posting was at the FBI's New York Field Office where she would join the organized crime squad.