Dr. Yvonne Spicer

Dr. Yvonne Spicer is a distinguished leader in education, public service, and advocacy. A native of Brooklyn, New York, she developed an early passion for architecture and engineering while attending Brooklyn Technical High School. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Arts and Technology and a Master’s of Science in Technology Education from the State University of New York, Oswego. She later obtained a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Massachusetts, Boston.

In 2018, Spicer made history as the first mayor of the newly established City of Framingham, becoming both Framingham’s first mayor and the first African American woman elected as a mayor in Massachusetts history. Her inauguration, where she was sworn in on a Bible held by Senator Elizabeth Warren and Congresswoman Katherine Clark, marked a defining moment for representation and leadership in the Commonwealth.

Before her tenure as mayor, Spicer built an extensive career in education and STEM advocacy. She served as Vice President for Advocacy and Educational Partnerships at Boston’s Museum of Science, working to expand STEM education access. She also held administrative roles in the Framingham and Newton public school districts, supporting student development and curriculum advancements.

Her influence extended to state policy as she was appointed to the Massachusetts Governor’s STEM Advisory Council by former Governor Deval Patrick in 2010 and reappointed by Governor Charlie Baker in 2017. She contributed to the Computer Science and Engineering and Career Pathways committees, advocating for workforce development and equitable education access. Additionally, Spicer was actively involved with the Massachusetts Business Roundtable, the Office of the Treasurer’s Economic Empowerment Trust Fund, and the Standing Committee on Ways and Means.

A recognized leader in technology and education, she served as the 2017 President-Elect of the International Technology Engineering Education Association (ITEEA) and was honored with the 2019 MassBay Distinguished Service Award for her advocacy.

Currently, Dr. Spicer continues her mission of equity and community impact as the Executive Director of Life Science Cares (LSC) Boston, a nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty and inequity in the region. Her leadership remains instrumental in driving meaningful change for underserved communities.