Laurie Jones Neighbors

Laurie Jones Neighbors was a dedicated professional who made significant contributions to social equity and public service. She passed away unexpectedly on November 1, 2022, at the age of 56.1

Professional Background

Laurie was the founder and managing consultant of Cities & People Advisors, where she partnered with organizations to achieve transformational change addressing structural inequities and systemic oppression.2 Her work focused on building power for public sector decision-making among historically marginalized communities.

Key Accomplishments

• Urban Habitat: Laurie served as the Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives, where she developed the Boards and Commissions Leadership Institute (BCLI), a successful program preparing under-represented leaders for local and regional boards and commissions.1

• Academic Career: She taught at several universities in Texas, Oregon, and California, most recently in the Public Health Department of San Francisco State University.1

• Recognition: In 2016, Laurie was included on the Living Cities list of 25 Disruptive Leaders working to improve economic outcomes for low-income people in America's cities.1

Public Service

Laurie was appointed to the San Francisco Sunshine Ordinance Task Force by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 2021. She served on the Compliance and Amendments Committee and chaired the Rules Committee.1 The Sunshine Ordinance aims to expand public access to local government meetings, information, and records.

Education

Laurie held two master's degrees:

1. Rhetoric and Composition from Texas Tech University
2. Sociology from the University of California, Irvine1

Laurie Jones Neighbors was known for her dedication to addressing structural inequalities, promoting public health, and fostering transparency in local government. Her unexpected passing was a significant loss to her colleagues, friends, and the communities she served.13