In a recent government meeting, San Francisco officials paid tribute to Martha Cohen, the city's director of special events, recognizing her significant contributions to the community and city governance. The meeting highlighted plans to illuminate a prominent building in red, white, and green in her honor, a gesture that reflects her longstanding commitment to the city.
Supervisor Mandelmann led the commendation, praising Cohen's exceptional skills and dedication. He described her as \"savvy, quick, dogged, and terrifying when necessary,\" emphasizing her unique ability to get things done efficiently. Cohen's influence extends beyond her official title, as she has played a pivotal role in organizing major city events, including civic funerals, global trade summits, and parades celebrating World Series victories.
Cohen's career began in the 1990s as a freelancer scouting filming locations, which paved the way for her subsequent roles under various mayors. She has organized inaugurations for five mayors and facilitated high-profile state visits, including those of Queen Elizabeth and Russian President Mikhail Gorbachev. Her contributions to the LGBTQ+ community during Pride events and her critical role in managing voting and vaccination sites during the COVID-19 pandemic were also highlighted.
The meeting concluded with a strong acknowledgment of Cohen's impact on San Francisco, underscoring the importance of dedicated public servants in fostering good governance and community spirit.