In March, the San Diego City Council celebrated Women's History Month and the importance women have had in our country's history. Women's History Month acknowledges the achievements of women, the barriers that have been broken, and the challenges that still remain in the face of gender inequality.
On Tuesday, March 18 the City Council recognized ten incredible women who are making history in our city, among them, the honoree from District 2 was Shelly Parks, Basic Needs Coordinator at San Diego Miramar College and the President of the Ocean Beach Community Foundation (OBCF). Parks stepped up to lead the OBCF during a tumultuous time, keeping this important OB community organization intact. The OBCF sponsors many beloved traditions such as the Holiday Parade, Iconic Crooked Tree, Food and Toy Drive, Taste of OB Restaurant Walk, and the annual Pancake Breakfast.
Outside of all the great work she does in Ocean Beach, Parks has decades of experience working in the local nonprofit sector. She has served with Jewish Family Service, as the Director of Programs at the San Diego Food Bank, 211 San Diego's CIE National Team, and currently as the Basic Needs Coordinator at San Diego Miramar College. Parks is a licensed clinical social worker and has a Master of Social Work from SDSU.
The other honorees for 2025 Women of Distinction are: Katy McDonald, Cori Austin, Sharon Gehl, Emilia Castillo, Khara Mangiduyos, Sgt. Maj. Rosalia Scifo, Haydee Jezabel Ramirez, Claudia Zavalza Hough-Snee, and Monica Hill.
D2 Councilmember Jennifer Campbell remarked, "There are so many trailblazing women in San Diego, and I am grateful to live in a time and place where women are breaking the barriers that have held back generations before them from reaching their full potential. Congratulations to Shelly and all the other Women of Distinction and thank you for all the work you do for your communities and for our city!"
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