"Our hearts are heavy today after hearing the news that former Mayersville Mayor Unita Blackwell has passed. We are a better state for her determination to make Mississippi a more just place. She remains a role model for generations of women who serve in city halls, county courthouses and the Mississippi Capitol. Godspeed, Mayor Blackwell. We salute you."

"Unita Blackwell epitomizes the power of community-based efforts and of Black women in the Civil Rights Movement to enact change at the local and regional level."

"I am saddened by the passing of Unita Blackwell. She dedicated her life to fighting for civil rights in Mississippi. We are forever grateful for her work and sacrifice."

"Blackwell’s work and legacy went beyond her local community. She became a vocal advocate for the inclusion of women and people of color in the broader political system, encouraging others to take leadership roles and fight for change."

"With her combination of experience and commitment, she is poised to leave her mark on Las Vegas’ storied history."

"Berkley brings a wealth of political knowledge to her new role."

"Berkley, a seasoned politician with decades of experience, pledged to honor the city’s legacy while addressing its growing challenges."

"I believe in public service, and to me public service is: You serve the public, not the other way around."

"Her leadership will likely aim to foster a sense of unity in one of the nation’s most diverse cities."

"I had to make a decision whether or not to run."

"With my experience, I’m a pretty well-rounded candidate for this position.This was just an announcement to let people know that I am running for office. I will hit the ground running later this year, and I am looking forward to working with all the members of the City Council."

"It's both an honor and a privilege for me to be here today as your new mayor. I'm very aware of the responsibility that you have entrusted me with, and I pledge to devote my life to working on behalf of the city of Las Vegas and the people who have chosen to make this remarkable city their home."

"Las Vegas is a city of dreams.People dream big in our town, whether it's hitting Megabucks or landing a job to support your family, buying a home, opening a business, getting a second chance in a new town. We all have dreams. I believe it's my responsibility, it's my job, along with the members of the City Council, city staff and employees to create an environment that is conducive to helping our fellow citizens realize their dreams."

"Her leadership marks a departure from tradition while signaling a renewed focus on pressing local issues."

"She was the anchorwoman of the council and much respected in the city. When she said something, she meant it, and knew what she was talking about."

"There is no reason why a woman’s administration shouldn’t be as efficient as a man’s!"

"It just takes one person to break barriers that will forever alter ‘business as usual’ and open the door for others to follow. In terms of female leadership in Norman, that one person was Mayor June Benson."

"a very top woman: aggressive, intelligent and honorable."

"As mayor, June enjoyed many lighter moments, as well."

"I’ve been blessed to work with many dynamic people throughout my career, who have taught me so much. I also have had the opportunity to mentor many young women who have gone on to do great things — I love to follow their careers."

"You don’t want that fight. Believe me when I tell you. If you don’t think that he can’t get to anybody he wants to, you’re kidding yourself."

"But despite all these fantastic accomplishments, she quickly admits the most joy in her life is her four grandchildren. One of Susan’s favorite quotes is from Maya Angelou, “Everything in the universe has a rhythm.” Everything in Susan’s universe seems to have perfect rhythm."

"I enjoy catching up with long-time friends and colleagues, many of whom I haven’t seen in quite a while. We have shared experiences and goals, but often live separate lives, and Impact100 allows us to reconnect. Plus, Impact100’s contributions are significant and meaningful to South Jersey non-profit organizations. It proves there is power in numbers."

"Her style of government was non-confrontational."

"She just thought she had a better chance of getting things done by trying to engage people rather than getting in their face about it. She kept trying to find ways [different sides] could agree on things."

"I really believe in that."

"I believe that backfired and helped me immensely, that and the fact that I worked harder, rang more doorbells and visited more homes in the ward."

"We shouldn’t be taxing a person for getting an education. Education is something society should encourage."

"She saw her role as a moderator, bringing about consensus."

"She's definitely good for business."

"She is a very political creature."

"I think everyone had enormous respect for Joan. I was so sorry to hear about her death. I think she will be remembered very fondly by Evanstonians for her many contributions to the city. She was a woman who stood up to take a leadership role at that time. I think it was actually pretty courageous to run. I think she inspired other women to run for office."

"Almost to the end, she maintained a keen interest in people, forging connections."

"She is as astute a mayor as anyone Evanston has had."

"Jane was the leader, and she fit the role perfectly."

"She struck a tone between a concerned mother and resident, and an intelligent person who could accomplish what we needed to accomplish."

"People still said, Oh I wish I could vote for her again."

"She threw herself heart and soul into it. She saw a lot of change - it was a fascinating 20 years."

"Jane was a pioneer for women years ahead of everyone else."

"I’m very interested in looking at that possibility of running for governor. I am looking at it seriously."

"I sort of feel like I’m addicted to responsibility. I think experience counts and matters, and I believe I have experience to continue to contribute in some way."

"She always included us and there was never any surprises. I didn’t agree with what was going on, but we had input and participation."

"We want to preserve what we’ve done. It took a lot of work. I would not gravitate toward raising taxes in this moment. I don’t think it’s called for yet."