First Woman to Lead a Major U.S. City
In 1975, Janet Gray Hayes made history — not just for San Jose, but for the entire country — when she became the first woman elected mayor of a major American city.
A trained speech pathologist turned public servant, Hayes rose through local politics with sharp vision and fearless determination. At a time when women were still fighting for a seat at the table, she didn’t just take a seat — she led the room.
During her two terms as mayor (1975–1983), Hayes helped guide San Jose through a time of rapid population growth, suburban expansion, and rising tech influence. She prioritized neighborhood development, civic engagement, and increasing the role of women in public life.
Hayes wasn’t just a “first” — she was a blueprint for inclusive leadership.
Today, her legacy continues in every woman who runs for office, every civic conversation that centers equity, and every vision of San Jose that values community as much as progress.