'InspirASIAN’

What do you do in a nutshell?

As the Assistant to the City Manager, I have a broad range of responsibilities. My role includes collaborating with different departments on special projects assigned by the City Manager, managing agreements and budgets, preparing various reports, conducting research and analysis, and representing the City in various meetings. I oversee the front lobby of City Hall and supervise the administrative staff in the City Manager’s Office. Additionally, I support the City Council, strategic planning, and economic development initiatives, and serve as the staff liaison to a Commission. In my capacity as the Public Information Officer for the City, I oversee diverse communication efforts, including the City’s Weekly Update, social media management, press releases, media inquiries, the City’s annual report, and State of the City support. I also provide guidance and assistance to departments for their communication efforts and marketing campaigns as needed.

What experiences and past roles have led you to where you are today?

My journey to my current role has been shaped by the diverse paths I've explored before entering local government and my varied experiences in different departments. During college, I interned and worked part-time, acquiring skills in research, attention to detail, and administrative tasks across psychology, accounting, and public health. These roles included transcribing interviews, meticulous spreadsheet work, writing MOUs and reports, and conducting breast cancer outreach for the San Diego Asian community. These experiences paved the way for my positions as a Management Analyst and later a Senior Management Analyst in water, the City Manager’s Office, fire and marine safety, and engineering, leading to my promotion to Assistant to the City Manager. Each role has contributed to my expertise in managing complex tasks and collaborating effectively within diverse organizational settings.

What career advice do you live by?

I wouldn’t necessarily call it advice, but rather a saying that has profoundly impacted me: “There is a certain nobility in public service.” I first heard this phrase from a previous County Administrative Officer nine years ago during a holiday luncheon, and it has stayed with me ever since. Whenever I encounter negative comments or misconceptions about local government employees, this phrase grounds me. It serves as a reminder of my deep commitment to public service, the joy I find in contributing to the community, and the privilege of working alongside dedicated colleagues who share this passion.

Why did you join I-NAPA?

The first I-NAPA meeting I attended was at the 2023 ICMA Conference. I left my coworkers to go to the meeting alone, expecting it to be a small gathering. To my surprise, the large meeting room was filled to capacity. Additional chairs had to be brought in from other rooms, showing just how many Asian public administrators were present. Representation does matter - it helps create a sense of belonging and validation and it shows proof that success is attainable for everyone, regardless of background. The members in this organization understand the cultural norms that individuals with Asian heritage grew up with and they truly know the importance of inclusion. I am proud to witness and be part of I-NAPA’s efforts to reach more Asians in our field and inspire greater inclusion in public administration.

What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?

The first time I ever walked into a City Hall was in sixth grade. A couple years after 9/11, my school district held a writing competition about what the American Dream meant for students. I won the competition for my school and had the opportunity to read my essay aloud at a City Council meeting. In my essay, I wrote about what the American Dream meant to me, focusing on my immigrant parents coming to the U.S. in search of better opportunities and a better life for our family. I guess you can say that was my first time presenting to City Council!

What’s one type of food you can eat every day for the rest of your life?

Oh my goodness, if there’s one other thing I’m passionate about besides working in local government, it’s food. I’d have to say omakase, where the chef selects the sushi and other Japanese dishes for your meal. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but I also deeply appreciate the effort and thought the chef puts into each piece. They add their unique flair, making it more exciting than simply choosing nigiri sushi yourself. Plus, the element of surprise adds to the experience. If only I could afford to eat it every day, I absolutely would!