Victoria Woodards made history in 2017 when she was elected as the first African American woman to serve as mayor of Tacoma, Washington. Since taking office, Woodards has been a trailblazer for her city, advocating for equality, diversity, and economic development.
Woodards’ journey to becoming mayor was not an easy one. She grew up in Tacoma’s Hilltop neighborhood, which at the time was struggling with crime and poverty. Despite the challenges she faced, Woodards was able to overcome them through hard work and determination. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Puget Sound and a master’s degree in business administration from Pacific Lutheran University.
Before becoming mayor, Woodards served as a member of the Tacoma City Council for eight years. During her time on the council, she worked to improve transportation, affordable housing, and public safety in the city. Woodards also served as a small business owner, community organizer, and deputy director of the Tacoma Urban League.
As mayor, Woodards has continued to be a strong advocate for her community. She has focused on promoting economic development, supporting small businesses, and addressing issues of affordable housing and homelessness. Woodards has also been a vocal supporter of diversity and inclusivity in Tacoma, working to create a city where all residents feel welcome and valued.
In addition to her work in Tacoma, Woodards has also been a leader on the national stage. She currently serves as president of the African American Mayors Association, where she advocates for policies that benefit African American communities across the country.
Overall, Victoria Woodards has proven herself to be a dedicated and visionary leader for the city of Tacoma. Through her work on the city council and as mayor, she has made significant strides in improving the quality of life for all residents. Her commitment to equality, diversity, and economic development has made her a true trailblazer in the world of politics. Mayor Woodards continues to inspire others with her passion and dedication to serving her community.
