Interim Public Works director also announced
Mayor Yemi Mobolade today announced the creation of the Mayor’s Office of Community Affairs. The office, established using two existing City positions, is dedicated to building relationships with community stakeholders by engaging neighborhoods, community leaders, partners, interest groups and community organizations.
“From its inception, our city has been a melting pot of culture, ideas and dreams,” said Mayor Mobolade. “The Mayor’s Office of Community Affairs will serve as the bridge between the mayor’s office and the city and help create meaningful partnerships. And to continue in that tradition to help raise the voices of all those who want Colorado Springs to be the best place to live. By working together, we can create an inclusive, culturally rich, economically prosperous, safe, and vibrant world-class American city.”
The office is supported by two staff members who report directly to the Mayor.
Danielle Summerville is the cultural & community outreach programs manager. She will work with a wide variety of groups on programming and events that serve to enhance our quality of life and reflect the vibrancy and diversity of our community.
Summerville previously served in Human Resources as the City’s first diversity and community outreach programs manager. Before working for the City, she had a 19-year career with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado – Pikes Peak where she served as executive director for 10 years.
Thomas Thompson is the community affairs advisor. In this role, he will help provide a direct connection for community groups to work with the Mayor’s Office.
Thompson previously served as senior pastor of Pulpit Rock Church in Colorado Springs for more than a decade, leading through a community-centric approach. He was one of the pioneers in the formation of COSILoveYou, a city-focused nonprofit that brings civic, business, and nonprofit sectors together to serve the Colorado Springs community. He also leads Thompson Leadership, a leadership coaching firm that helps executives navigate what’s next in their organizations.
Also announced today, Gayle Sturdivant has been named interim director of Public Works. Sturdivant previously served the City as deputy director of Public Works and City engineer. The City will begin a nationwide search for the permanent role.