On December 1st, 2023, Philadelphia Mayor-elect Cherelle Parker announced the names of the staffers and sub-committee members who will aid her transition into office. Pond Lehocky Giordano founding partner Samuel H. Pond will be serving on the Commerce & Economic Development subcommittee.
In his capacity as a subcommittee member, Mr. Pond will advise Parker on setting priorities, identifying necessary resources, and defining policy goals regarding labor advocacy and business growth initiatives for her administration as she transitions from campaigning to governing. For full lists of the staffers and subcommittee members on Parker’s transition team, see the links below.
Leadership – https://transition2023.org/leadership/
Senior Advisors and Steering Committee Members – https://transition2023.org/steering-committee/
Sub-Committee Members – https://transition2023.org/sub-committees/
Transition Staff – https://transition2023.org/staff/
“I have said that I will bring together the best and brightest from within City government, across Philadelphia and the region, and across the country; and crafting the policies that will create tangible results out of our promises on the campaign trail: to make Philadelphia the safest, cleanest and greenest city in America with economic opportunity for all,” said Parker in regards to the announcement. “The lift of the transition will be heavy, but this will be the team to do it.”
When sworn in on January 2nd, 2024, she will be the first woman to hold the position of the mayor of Philadelphia.
A long history of public service
Throughout her career, Parker has proved her dedication to the city of Philadelphia and its people time and time again. In high school, she began by interning. in Philadelphia’s City Council for Councilwoman Marian B. Tasco. After receiving her undergraduate degree, she would quickly rise to a senior staff position for Councilwoman Tasco, overseeing the implementation of all community development and economic initiatives. In 2005, she made history as the youngest Black woman elected to the State Legislature, going on to serve for ten years as a State Representative representing Northwest Philadelphia.
In 2016, Parker represented Northwest Philadelphia as well as the lower Northeast in her position as Council Majority Leader in the City Council. Here, she focused on improving public safety, enhancing economic opportunities for small businesses, and stabilizing “middle neighborhoods.”
A mayor for the people
As Mayor-elect of Philadelphia, Parker has pledged to fight for a safer, cleaner, and greener city. Due to her long history of advocating for labor and unions, Pond Lehocky Giordano has proudly endorsed her. In September 2023, our firm assisted in hosting a fundraiser for her mayoral campaign.
“This transition will build an administration to make Philadelphia the 21st century, world-class city it has the potential to be.” said Ryan Boyer, Transition Chairman for Mayor-elect Parker. “The people who make up this team are the kind of public servants we want across City government. I am excited to get to work with this team.”