Semi Cole

Semi (pronounced SHAY MEE) is a Program Manager for Code for America’s Social Safety Net Innovation Lab. An environmentalist, higher ed advocate, and community organizer, Semi blends his passion for civic design and cross-sectoral innovation to build actionable solutions for communities of color. Raised in San Bernardino, CA, Semi studied at the University of California, Riverside, where he received his bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, and served his campus as Student Body President. Prior to CFA, Semi co-led the development of UCLA’s Center for the Advancement of Racial Equity (CARE) at Work, a multidisciplinary research center housed in the Institute for Research on Labor and Employment. Focused on addressing civic and economic inequities for Black working-class Californians, Semi directed the Center’s community-based labor education verticals, participatory research projects, and union-community coalition building. The son of Nigerian Immigrants, Semi leads with a strong entrepreneurial spirit and heart for public service. He is an aspiring late-night talk show host who loves stand-up comedy, political humor, and creative storytelling. In love with the process of continual growth and new experiences, Semi lives his life in vibrant colors, operating with a mentality to always think big, never quit, and strive to deliver the best results.