New community services director to lead department in meeting residents’ needs

by Laura Straub

Emily Thomas brings years of experience managing community relations and guest services for Cleveland attractions like the Cavaliers and the Great Lakes Science Center to the city of Independence as the new community services director.

In this role, Thomas will be responsible for managing the city’s community services programming, resources and staff to provide a wide variety of activities, special events, resources and services for residents of all ages.

Thomas said she will consult with the administration, residents, community leaders and community organizations to best identify and address the needs of the Independence community, and provide opportunities for community involvement, learning and socialization.

She will also be responsible for the department’s budget, managing staff and operations, and collaborating with both internal and external leaders. Although the role carries a lot of responsibilities, Thomas said she will have the support of an amazing team.

“You will not often hear me use the word ‘I’ when I refer to community services, because we are a team,” said Thomas. “Everyone in the community services department is truly passionate about collectively and collaboratively serving the community and the people we love.”

She said residents had an opportunity to share their feedback about community services programs in a survey earlier this year, and the department will work to meet the ever-evolving needs of the community.

Thomas first began working in community services after graduating from Baldwin Wallace University in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Sports Management and Public Relations.

“I served as the community relations seasonal assistant for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Following my seasonal assistant position, I accepted a full-time position as a guest services supervisor at the Great Lakes Science Center before being promoted to accounting coordinator,” Thomas said. “In January 2015, I returned to the Cavs as the community relations coordinator before being promoted to manager, community relations and then ultimately to senior manager, community relations and player programs.”

Between an internship, seasonal position and her full-time roles, Thomas worked for the Cavs for 10 seasons.

“I was simply ready for the next chapter of my career with an organization and in a role where I could get back to the heart of doing what I love to do … serving others,” she said. “From the very beginning, I’ve been overwhelmed by the warmth and kindness everyone has shown me, and their passion for serving the community. I could not be happier to have made this transition at this point in my career and look forward to serving the heart of Cuyahoga County for years to come.”

Thomas is coming from a different industry in another community, so she’s taking time to familiarize herself with the city’s current programs, services, events and, most importantly, the people who make up the community.

“We are eager to evaluate, evolve and expand our current offerings to do even more to serve residents of all ages in truly meaningful ways,” she said. “Addressing the impact of the ongoing pandemic, especially when it comes to our residents’ physical, mental, social and emotional wellness, is essential to the overall well-being of our community.” ∞