ABOUT DR. DAWNTÉ EARLY

Dr. Dawnté Early is a leading voice in health equity, public health, and mental health, currently serving as President and CEO of United Way California Capital Region. Her leadership drives the organization’s mission to mobilize community action so all can thrive. At United Way, she leads a team focused on solving real problems with real solutions — guaranteed income for struggling families, early literacy programs that prepare children to succeed, community schools that meet families where they are, and housing navigation that helps neighbors find stability. Through these efforts, she brings together partners from every sector to build systems that are more just, inclusive, and human.

In 2021, Early made history as the first Black councilmember elected to the West Sacramento City Council, joining the city’s first all-female council. Her prior roles with the State of California enabled her to champion reforms in behavioral health and criminal justice.

Early’s work has earned her broad recognition, including the Sacramento Business Journal’s Power 100 list (2025), Black Change Maker by the Sacramento Bee (2023), Most Admired CEO, and Women Who Mean Business honoree (2024). A triple alumna of UC Davis, she holds a master’s in child development and a Ph.D. in human development with a minor in quantitative psychology.

Whether through visionary leadership or public service, Early continues to uplift her community, remove barriers, and inspire change across the Sacramento region.

ON LEADERSHIP AND INFLUENCE

What does “Black Power and Influence” mean to you?
To have power and influence as a Black leader means carrying the responsibility to uplift others, advocate for equity, and ensure that our voices and contributions are reflected in every space.

Leadership Lesson:
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to never underestimate the power of your story — it can inspire others to see what’s possible for themselves.

Who inspires you most and why?
My parents are the reason I lead the way I do. They modeled integrity, faith, and service in everything they did.

What are the biggest opportunities you see for Sacramento’s Black community in the years ahead?
The biggest opportunities for Sacramento’s Black community lie in continued collaboration and advocacy — working together to build wealth, promote education, and ensure our collective voice shapes the future of this region.

ON EVERYDAY LIFE

Song/Artist On Repeat: Bruno Mars and Usher stay on repeat — but really, I love all kinds of music.

Recharge Ritual: I love going to the movies, especially early matinees.

Weekend in Sacramento: Honestly, free Saturdays are rare. I’m a mom to two kids, including a preteen, so weekends usually mean track meets, community events, or both.

Hidden Passion: I love sneaker shopping — there’s just something about a fresh pair that brings me joy.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our “Onyx 25” sponsors for their generous support: