Meet Emma
Mayor Emma Sharif has served as the Mayor of Compton since July 2021, after representing the 4th District on the City Council since 2015. A resident for over 30 years, she is dedicated to education and public service, having previously secured over $40 million for school renovations on the Compton Unified School District Board. As Mayor, she has launched a $19.5 million infrastructure improvement program, established the Compton Arts Commission, and initiated a digital equity project to enhance community technology access. Mayor Sharif holds a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science/Sociology and a Master's Degree in Public Administration, with ongoing priorities focused on economic development and public safety.
The Third African-American female Mayor of a major city.
Mayor Emma Sharif has served as the Mayor of the City of Compton since July 2021. Prior to her Mayoral victory, she was elected to represent the 4th District on the City Council in June 2015. Mayor Emma Sharif has been a resident of Compton for over 30 years, proudly raising her children and working in the community throughout that time.
With a deep passion for education and public service, Mayor Sharif was no stranger to hard work. In 2001, she was appointed to the Compton Unified School District (CUSD) Board of Trustees, filling a Board vacancy. In 2003, she successfully ran for a full term and served as Trustee for 14 years. Having worked as a public school teacher and Youth Development Director, Mayor Sharif observed firsthand the need for more qualified and dedicated teachers. She became a staunch advocate for student success and well-being.
During her time as Trustee, Mayor Emma Sharif successfully championed the Emergency Repair Program (ERP), which yielded over $40 million to repair 28 district schools. She served in various leadership capacities, including President, Vice President, Clerk, and Legislative Representative.
In 2015, Mayor Sharif ran a successful campaign for Compton City Council District 4. As a councilmember, she enhanced the city's scholarship program, supported the Collaborative Court, coordinated efforts to address human trafficking, and led initiatives to tackle homelessness. She also coordinated the redevelopment of South Park and served on several regional and statewide committees.
Since her election as Mayor in 2021, Mayor Emma Sharif has driven significant progress in Compton. She oversaw the Artesia Bridge Restoration, is heavily involved in a regional digital equity initiative, and ensured the city addressed the State Auditor's Report findings. Her fostering of the "Clean and Beautify Compton" initiative has revitalized public spaces, and she established the Compton Arts Commission while preparing the city for the 2028 Olympics.
Under Mayor Sharif's leadership, the city has launched a $19.5 million infrastructure improvement program that touches every corner of Compton. This comprehensive initiative includes a $4 million investment in road maintenance, rehabilitation, and resurfacing, implementing pedestrian and bicycle safety measures, and completing over 100 crosswalk upgrades across all four council districts. Additionally, the city has committed $1.2 million to professional tree maintenance, partnering with an eco-friendly company to ensure the urban forest thrives for generations to come.
Mayor Sharif has been proud to represent Compton, building relationships with neighboring cities, state and federal legislative leaders. She remains dedicated to unifying the community and improving the quality of life for all residents and visitors.
Mayor Emma Sharif holds a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science/Sociology and a Master's Degree in Public Administration. Her ongoing priorities include driving economic development, strengthening public safety, modernizing infrastructure, and fostering a more connected community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
