ABOUT DR. FLOJAUNE ‘FLO’ COFER

Dr. Flojaune “Flo” Cofer represents the heart of Sacramento’s new wave of Black civic leadership — bold, informed, and deeply rooted in community. A nationally trusted public health professional and seasoned California policy expert, she has spent her career fighting for a city that protects health and opportunity for all.

As an epidemiologist and Senior Director of Policy for Public Health Advocates, Cofer led statewide initiatives addressing health equity, prevention, and emergency response. Her earlier work at the California Department of Public Health ensured that maternal health and reproductive care were central to the Affordable Care Act’s implementation.

But it was her 2023 campaign for mayor that captured the city’s imagination. Running a populist, corporate-free campaign, Cofer defied expectations — building a broad, multiethnic, intergenerational movement powered by everyday Sacramentans who believed that “more was possible.” Her campaign finished with 49.5% of the vote, a result that continues to reverberate across Sacramento’s civic landscape.

That energy didn’t end with the election. The coalition she built lives on under the banner More Is Possible — a testament to her ability to connect data with humanity, policy with people, and conviction with hope.

Raised in Pittsburgh by two public school teachers, Cofer moved to Sacramento 20 years ago. Today, she remains a voice for inclusion, accountability, and collective possibility — reminding the city that progress isn’t a privilege; it’s a responsibility.

ON LEADERSHIP AND INFLUENCE

What does “Black Power and Influence” mean to you?
It means that you actively listen to people to understand the complexities of what we want and need, that you show up in moments of joy and heartbreak to be a part of our corporate connection, and that when given an opportunity, you use what you’ve gained from these experiences to do work that meets the moment, gather people to build momentum, create space for new voices, and tell stories that expand the narrative of what and who Sacramento is and can be.

Leadership Lesson:
All of this is made up. Every single system or circumstance that seems permanent or intractable was once someone’s wild idea. That someone was no smarter or more capable than any of us. Things can be built and they can be retrofitted, remodeled, rebuilt, or torn down.

Who inspires you most and why?
My parents — both public school teachers — taught me history and gave me confidence in my capability. I try to radiate that confidence by including, supporting, and inspiring others with my energy.

What are the biggest opportunities you see for Sacramento’s Black community in the years ahead?
One of the benefits of living in one of the most ethnically diverse regions in the country is that many people look to members of the Black community for ethical leadership and moral guidance. I don’t think we’ve begun to scratch the surface of what power we can build by using that influence.

ON EVERYDAY LIFE

Song/Artist On Repeat: My “Ode to the Booty” playlist on Spotify — an underappreciated sub-genre, in my opinion.

Recharge Ritual: Getting a massage — especially with Rico at Oak Park Massage Clinic.

Weekend in Sacramento: Outside at a community event, then meeting up with friends for food and drinks. Free Saturdays are for wandering wherever the day leads.

Hidden Passion: I love to paint. This year, I’ve focused on murals—painting the walls of my home and those of my loved ones.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our “Onyx 25” sponsors for their generous support: