introducing Shirley Hirai Parsons

about Shirley Hirai Parsons

Shirley Parsons began her career at the Port District thirty-three years ago as an Office Assistant.  She was promoted several times, and today, is the Manager of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and has the role of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator.

Mrs. Parsons is involved in the development and implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs for the Port District.  Throughout her career, she has coordinated and participated in Port-wide and community outreach events and workshops for consultants, contractors, vendors, and job seekers.  She is actively involved with her counterparts in the contracting industry via the Public Agency Consortium and has implemented various partnerships with other San Diego regional entities to enhance the Port District's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs.

Mrs. Parsons has lived overseas in Japan, Okinawa, and Korea, and holds a liberal arts degree in Asian language and literature from The University of Iowa.