Councillor Janet Marshall described becoming mayor of Croydon as "the proudest evening in my life" at the annual meeting of the council on Monday.
The Shirley councillor succeeded Councillor Maggie Mansell at the ceremony.
Purley councillor Graham Bass was named as deputy.
Coun Marshall, who nominated Age Concern and The Samaritans as her two charities for the year, said: "My theme for the year is to form a better understanding between the many groups, organisations and communities in the borough.
"I hope to create opportunities for us to explore and understand better the beliefs of others and the historical background to these traditions."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article