Profiles in Power highlights public officials nationwide who are improving their communities through their dedication, enthusiasm, creativity and experience.
This week’s profile is Nora Vargas, chairwoman of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors.
Public career highlights and education: To be the first woman, first Latina and first woman of color to serve as supervisor of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors has been a historic opportunity for me. I am also the first Latina to chair SANDAG, the San Diego Association of Governments. But my biggest accomplishment has been the opportunity to serve my community in numerous capacities. I was able to open the first office of immigrant affairs for the city of Los Angeles. I have been a political consultant, an elected official, an executive, and I was the first Latina executive for Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest.
What I like best about public service: Doing everything in my power to make sure government works for everyone and not just for some is something I strive for every day.
The best advice I’ve received: I have very wise parents who said to always be true to yourself and being very authentic is very important. And you have to have passion and commitment because people can see right through you.
People might be interested to know that: I love fly fishing and country music. I think a lot of people don’t know that about me.
One thing I wish more people knew about the county of San Diego: The county of San Diego is the second largest county in California, and we have about 20,000 employees. We have some of the most dedicated, most wonderful public servants in the state. They have been through a lot of transition. They care so much about the public. They really are doing such amazing work to try to deliver for our communities every day.
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