Leadership Profile: Dr. Nicole Clavo works to reduce gun violence
Sacramento (March 30, 2021) Nicole Clavo, head of the City’s Office of Violence Prevention, is the fifth woman leading change at the City of Sacramento whom we are highlighting in our series for Women’s History Month. Read our profiles on Jennifer Venema, Jennifer Donlon-Wyant, Dr. LaTesha Watson and Danielle Foster to learn more about the amazing group of women changing Sacramento’s approach to policing, gun violence, transportation, homelessness, housing and climate change.
Name: Dr. Nicole Clavo, Psy.D
Education: Doctorate of Psychology in Organization Development
Years in Sacramento: 11
Years in the position: 7 months
What do you view as your mission as Head of the Office of Violence Prevention for the City of Sacramento?
I believe my role is to ensure the Success of the Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) by developing strong positive relationships with community-based organizations and law enforcement. I would like to see the silos among our CBO’s disappear and for there to be synergy across the city. I believe it is OVP’s responsibility not only to hold each CBO accountable for the work they have proposed to do and have been funded for but to also provide referrals to resources and be more involved in the programs. Their success is the City’s success.
In your mind, what would Sacramento look like in 10 years?
I would love to say there will be no gun violence, but I will settle for saying gun violence will be down, and we will have more programs and funding in the underserved communities. We will have brought back Regional Occupational Programs to high schools to better prepare our youth for the future.
What is the biggest challenge you face in your position?
Cliques, and explaining to individuals that there is no one voice/one person that can speak for a city of at-risk, underserved youth. Also, understanding/explaining the difference between providing a service on paper and being “boots on the ground.”
What is the biggest opportunity?
Being chosen for this position, being a part of change. Watching it happen in front of your eyes, seeing the impact that it has on our communities and being proud to say you are on the frontline with those deep in the trenches getting the work done.
Describe a memorable experience or person that had an effect on where you are today?
Losing the love of my life 27 years ago and then my son almost six years ago, both to gun violence, impacted me tremendously. Living through those experiences has led me to where I am today. God has been preparing me for this role for quite some time. I graciously except the charge he has placed on my life.
