Claudia Thomas

Mayor City of Lakewood WA

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- “All of the possibilities really got my right brain in gear.”

Even as a child, Claudia Thomas was an over-achiever. At the age of 19, she graduated from University of North Carolina and took a job as a food editor for Ebony magazine.

It was rapidly clear, though, that Thomas had another mission to fulfill, and it wasn't long before she left the magazine. She had double-majored in chemistry and home economics. Chemistry was meant to be a platform for medical school, where she hoped to become a pediatrician. Home economics, however, was a way to placate her mother.

"My mother emphasized the importance of being a good homemaker and wife," she said, noting that during that era, education served mainly as a distraction for women until they married and focused on managing a home.

Thomas was determined, however, to becoming a professional, independent woman. She found her calling as a teacher in Asheville, N.C.

As the wife of a military man,  Thomas had opportunities to teach around the globe. An interesting side note is that she was the chemistry teacher to a young boy in Okinawa and that boy is now the Lakewood police chief.

Thomas spent 42 years as an educator and retired as assistant superintendent of Bremerton schools. When she retired, she never anticipated becoming a civic leader and pioneer. But that is exactly what happened.

Thomas was approached about running for Lakewood City Council immediately after the city incorporated 10 years ago.

"I don't think I would have ever even considered it, if Lakewood wasn't a brand new city," she said. "When it's a new city, you can get creative. All of the possibilities really got my right brain in gear."

Her dedication and creativity paid off when she was selected as Lakewood's mayor. For Thomas, it was a trailblazing moment that will be a part of Washington's history. She is the first black female mayor in the entire state.

"The event that has fundamentally changed my life is being chosen as the mayor of Lakewood and the first African American female mayor in the state," she said. "When I look at the rich diversity in our city, the representation of ethnicity is very paramount. My selection to be mayor is not only a time in history, but a significant message to convey that a minority can be mayor of a city that is very diverse. I want young people to get the message – don't let color stand in your way. Lakewood needs to be – and can be – a city that is inclusive. We will demonstrate that by not just talking about unity and inclusiveness, but in the way we behave."

During her years of civic service, she's emphasized improving the community for future generations. Children have always been a major passion of hers and, through her position, she's been able to institute an array of programming to serve youth. Lakewood has twice been selected as one of the 100 Best Communities for Young People during Thomas' tenure.

Another emphasis is giving Lakewood residents more control of their neighborhoods through programs like Community Policing and a new leadership program that Thomas hopes will be a source of pride for the
diverse city.

"My greatest challenge is leading the city through a leadership development and asset-mapping plan that will ensure there is an organized, trained group of leaders in each neighborhood providing support, networking and building partnerships,
while creating safe communities," she said.

Thomas supports a variety of community organizations, public entities and non-profit agencies, particularly those emphasizing youth programs.

She was nominated for the Women of Influence recognition program by two past honorees.  Mary Moss, community relations manager with Harborstone Credit Union, said Thomas is the epitome of a community leader.

"She should be chosen because she is doing a fantastic job preparing our future leaders working with the Youth Advisory Council members, while involving our current leaders to make our city a better place to live, work and play," Moss said.

Mary Gates, executive director of the Federal Way Symphony, echoed those sentiments.

"Education has always been her first love, and she remains active in
her college and education advocacy organizations," Gates said. "Her attention to making human services widely available and her visionary approach to the future of the South Puget Sound distinguish her. She has done this with the highest ethical standards and caring demeanor."