A Pioneer Mother

Building a strong future for Lakewood means supporting young people today. That’s the philosophy of City Councilwoman Claudia Thomas, who was honored Monday night at her final council meeting, wrapping up her four-term tenure.

"We've got to grow leaders today for tomorrow," said Thomas, 81. "We need to continue nurturing our youth if we want to be strong. Keep the unity in the community."

Thomas was the first black female mayor to be elected in Washington state, collecting more votes from her peers on the City Council over incumbent Mayor Douglas Richardson. She led Lakewood from 2006 to 2007.

Over the years, Thomas has been a chief supporter of human services and youth. She has managed to earmark 1 percent of the city's budget to human services and developed the which serves as a liaison between youth and the Lakewood City Council.

Amid a crowded audience in support of Thomas' long-time contributions, Richardson said she's an iconic figure in Lakewood's 16-year history.

"If there's an adjective to describe Claudia it's tireless," he said. "Claudia has been a champion for our youth. She was there fighting for the improvement of our children."

Becky Huber, president of the Lakewood Historical Museum, began crying while speaking about Thomas' contributions. It was an emotional evening for those who've experienced the positive impact Thomas made in the Lakewood community.

"You taught me to never give up on something if you believe in it," Huber said. "The other thing coming to fruition is seeing the train coming."

Thomas fully expects be to around for the grand opening of the Sound Transit train, which is expected to open its rail service to Lakewood in the summer or fall of 2012.

"It feels good," Thomas said about her final council meeting. "I'm still going to be around and working with the youth. I just won't be doing this."

She served as the city's first deputy mayor and worked a total of 41 years in public education, nearly half (19 years) with the Kent School District. Her first teaching job was in Asheville, N.C.

Councilman Jason Whalen said he admires her dedication to youth.

"We have incredible unity in our community and much of that is due to Claudia," Whalen said.

Lakewood City Councilwoman Mary Moss said Thomas has been a great mentor to her.

"We have had a lot of fun and shared a lot of challenges and we've worked through them all," Moss said.

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About Claudia Thomas

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, Bennett College
• Master's degree in educational administration, Seattle University
• Doctorate in organizational development and management, Union University
• National Certified Strategic Planning Consultant
• Negotiator Certified

Civic, political experience and activities:

• American Leadership Forum—Class VIII
• Co-leader of the Lakewood Human Services Collaboration
• Active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Kappa Delta Pi—Honorary Society
• Steward at Allen A.M.E. Church
• Sound Transit Board Member
• Co-Chair—Lakewood's Promise Steering Committee
• Co-Chair—Gang Free Grant Foundation
• Government Commission on Substance Abuse
• Past Board Member—Lakewold Gardens
• Past Board Member—Clover Park Technical College Foundation
• Board member—Senior Citizen's Board
• 42 years in public education
• Vice Principal, Principal, and Retired Assistant Superintendent
• Member—Lakewood First Lions Club
• Member—Chamber of Commerce
• Member—Tacoma Branch of NAACP
• Member—Tacoma Urban League