Bernita Sims sworn in as mayor of High Point

Justice Henry Frye administers the oath of office to Bernita Sims as her family members look on.

Bernita Sims was sworn as the first African-American mayor of High Point by retired NC Supreme Court Justice Henry Frye in a historic ceremony tonight.

Frye also administered the oath to returning council members Becky Smothers, Britt Moore and Foster Douglas, along with newcomers Jeff Golden, Judy Mendenhall, Jay Wagner, Jim Davis and Jason Ewing during the ceremony at High Point Theatre.

Sims told an audience of elected officials, family members, campaign supporters and other citizens that she looks forward to engaging the community through three new mayor's commissions focusing on millennials; youth, education and families; and arts and culture.

"I believe that each of the council members sitting here today believes in High Point and has committed themselves to making High Point a great place to live, work and play," Sims said. "The city's commitment to the growth of small businesses and the retention and attraction of new businesses can only be enhanced by the council members sitting here."

Sims said the city will continue to collaborate with High Point University and other educational institutions.

"Resurgence and revitalization of our core communities is vital to the success of our city's continued growth and prosperity," she said. "We have much to do to achieve these goals. Our drive to grow the tax base, improve our schools and the quality of education in partnership with Guilford County Schools, to provide quality services to our residents and our commitment to provide the citizens of High Point with a quality of life that meets or exceeds their expectations is part of our mission. This is a tall order in these economic times, but one that can be achieved with cooperation, communication and commitment by each and every one of our citizens and corporate residents."