Yvonne D. Flowers, a lifelong resident of the City of Poughkeepsie, is a dedicated community leader who made history in January 2024 when she was sworn in as the City’s first African American Mayor.

Before retiring from Dutchess Community College after more than 33 years of service, Mayor Flowers excelled as Grants and Contracts Finance Officer and served on numerous college committees and boards. Her leadership and contributions earned her the prestigious SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence. In April 2025, she was inducted into the Dutchess Community College Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame.

Her public service extended beyond her professional career. As a four-term 5th Ward City Councilwoman, she championed initiatives to improve community-police relations, reduce blighted properties, expand home ownership, enhance park facilities, strengthen city finances, and increase youth programming and resources. As Mayor, she continues this work and collaborates with organizations to address food and housing insecurities. She currently serves as co-chair of the Children’s Cabinet, focused on ending intergenerational poverty and promoting social mobility.

Mayor Flowers’s passion for service is deeply rooted in her family’s legacy of promoting unity and hope. Building on her father John Flowers’s legacy, she co-organizes community events like holiday dinners and celebrations that strengthen connections across Poughkeepsie.

Under her leadership, the City has secured a $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) award and established its first Business Improvement District (BID), both aimed at boosting local economic development. She has also helped bring in millions in state and federal funding to improve infrastructure, enhance public services, and support neighborhood revitalization.

When not serving her community, Mayor Flowers cherishes time with her family, especially her seven grandchildren. Her steadfast dedication and tireless efforts have made her a respected leader and advocate for positive change in Poughkeepsie.Beyond her professional achievements, Mayor Flowers's commitment to her community is evident through her extensive involvement in local boards and committees. As a former four-term 5th Ward City Councilwoman, she spearheaded initiatives to improve community-police relations, enhance park facilities, and provide vital COVID-19 resources.

Mayor Flowers’s passion for community service is deeply rooted in her family's legacy of promoting unity and hope. Continuing her father, John Flowers's impactful work, she co-organizes numerous community events, including holiday dinners and celebrations, exemplifying her dedication to fostering a stronger, more connected Poughkeepsie.

When not serving her community, she cherishes time with her family, including her seven grandchildren. Her unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have made her a respected leader and advocate for positive change in Poughkeepsie.