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Dr. Claudia Thomas made history while serving the community of Lakewood: First as a member of the inaugural City Council in 1995 and again in 2006 when her peers voted her Mayor, making her the first female African American mayor in Washington State. Prior to becoming mayor, Thomas served as Deputy Mayor 

from 1995 to 2003. 

Those who worked with Thomas described her as a mother figure committed to giving a voice to overlooked populations, including youth. Thomas served  42 years in public education as a teacher, vice principal, principal and as an assistant superintendent of public instruction.  She earned her graduate degree in education administration from Seattle University and also a doctorate degree.

In 1997 Thomas worked to get two youth advisors appointed to the Lakewood City Council. Today there is a Lakewood Youth Council with more than 20 members that acts as one of the

 city’s advisory boards. 

Thomas is also responsible for initiating the city’s practice of dedicating 1 percent of its general fund to human service organizations. She also created Lakewood’s Promise, which is still active and focuses on helping children become successful adults. 

As a result of Thomas’ work, the city was recognized nationally by America’s Promise as one of the 100 Best Communities for Young People in 2006-2008 and again in 2010-2012.