Women's History Month

Pembroke Pines Female City Commissioners

During Women’s History Month, we proudly recognize the dedicated women who serve and have served on our City Commission. Their leadership, experience, and steadfast commitment to public service have helped shape the growth and success of our community over the years.

Whether newly elected or having served across multiple terms, these women have brought thoughtful guidance, collaboration, and a strong voice for residents to the decision-making table. We thank our female commissioners—past and present—for their lasting contributions and for inspiring future generations of civic leaders.

Ruth Pearce (sometimes recorded as Ruth Pierce) was one of the original city council members of Pembroke Pines following its incorporation on January 19, 1960. A dedicated advocate for incorporation, she played an important role in the community movement that led to the city’s founding.  Elected to the first city council under Mayor Seth Kipnis, Pearce also served as Vice Mayor during her term. She served for one year and remained a respected figure in the city’s early history. Pearce passed away in 1994.

Florence Normandin served on the city commission from 1964 to 1965. Normandin passed away on April 10, 2000.

Adrienne Daniel served on the city commission from 1965 to 1966.

Anna Sozio was elected to the commission in 1979 and served until 1980. During her tenure, she was active in local civic organizations, including the United Taxpayers group, the Pembroke Pines Democratic Club, and the Civic Association. Her campaign emphasized her dedication to community care, reflected in her slogan, “Give her a chance because she cares.” Sozio passed away on January 28, 2003.

Rose Price served from 1979 to 1990, winning election five times and serving eleven years until a hip injury prompted her resignation. A longtime advocate for her neighbors, Price organized community initiatives before holding office, including fundraising for the city’s first ambulance, and opposing annexation by Hollywood. As a commissioner, she focused on the needs of the elderly and consistently prioritized citizen concerns. The city honored her legacy with the naming of Rose Price Park in the Chapel Trail Development. Price passed away on November 11, 1997.

Margaret Bosarge served two non-consecutive terms, from 1981 to 1984 and again from 1986 to 1992. Over the years, she held numerous roles within the city, including City Clerk, Deputy City Clerk, Acting Finance Director, Acting City Manager, Vice Mayor, and Commissioner. She was recognized for her service and family legacy, with Michael Bosarge Park named in memory of her son. Bosarge passed away on August 4, 1992.

Katherine “Kitty” Thibault served on the commission from 1990 to 1998. A dedicated businesswoman, Thibault was deeply involved in civic and charitable initiatives, including founding Prestige Club, Inc., which supported abused and exploited children. Her leadership and commitment to the community extended throughout her eight years on the commission. Thibault passed away on January 15, 2023.

Susan B. Katz served the Pembroke Pines Community from 1998 to 2003 and made history in 2004 when she became the city’s first female Mayor. Known for her accessibility and results-oriented leadership, she championed initiatives on education, transportation, recreational services, and programs for seniors and residents with disabilities. Her accomplishments include supporting the new stadium at Flanagan High School and securing funding for the Arts Park. In recognition of her strong advocacy for the arts, the theatre at the River of Grass ArtsPark was named in her honor. Katz passed away on April 14, 2004, just one month after defeating an incumbent to become Mayor.

Iris A. Siple served the Pembroke Pines community from 2004 to 2024, earning multiple terms in office and serving five times as Vice Mayor. Her two decades of leadership were defined by a strong commitment to youth, families, seniors, and the city’s diverse population. Siple founded impactful initiatives such as the “Raising Positive Children” forum, the SHEroes event, and a scholarship for young women pursuing civic engagement. Siple also championed significant city improvements, including the development of Miracle League baseball fields and park expansions. Throughout her tenure, she worked diligently to strengthen protections and expand opportunities for youth and vulnerable residents across Pembroke Pines.

Maria Rodriguez was elected in March 2024 to serve on the Pembroke Pines City Commission, making history as the city's first elected female Hispanic Commissioner and its youngest ever elected commissioner. A passionate advocate for inclusive representation, she is committed to ensuring every community voice is heard and championing policies that support youth, young families, and long-term affordability. With a background in communications and advertising across both the private and public sectors, Commissioner Rodriguez brings the expertise to meet residents where they are — engaging the community through a variety of outreach methods and communication channels.