Pennsauken Township made history Tuesday night by swearing in Nicole Roberts as its first African American woman mayor.
Roberts, who has been on the township committee for four years, became the first Black woman to serve on the committee in 2020 and the first to hold the position of deputy mayor in 2022.
The historic moment resonated deeply with Roberts, a 61-year-old retired educator and mother of four, who described herself as “humbled and honored” to take on this leadership role.
“To be the first African American woman means a lot to me and my community,” she shared.
Pennsauken, a racially diverse township, has had African American and female mayors in the past but never someone who embodied both identities.
Roberts never set out to break barriers, but a former mayor who recognized her potential encouraged her to enter politics.
As Roberts reflected on her journey, she credited her upbringing and her experience with the Homestead Youth Association, a nonprofit that helped her understand community service.
A graduate of Pennsauken High School, Roberts spent decades in education before transitioning to public service.
She attributes her success to the strong Black women who instilled compassion and confidence in her.
Roberts’ leadership was already recognized with the Camden County Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Medal in 2023.
As mayor, she aims to enhance public safety and expand parks, community spaces, and open areas in the township.
She also oversees significant infrastructure projects, including a $30 million library and municipal building funded through state and federal grants set for completion this summer and a $20 million community center partially financed by grants.
Roberts hopes her achievements inspire others, particularly young women, to see politics and public service as viable career paths.
Her message to the community is clear: “Never limit yourself. You really can do anything.“
