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In celebration of Women’s History Month Meet Rancho Cucamonga's Chamber President- Elect Heather Parsons!
1. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your job position.
I have the pleasure of working at Chaffey College as the Interim Director of Foundation, Community Partnerships and External Relations. In my role I develop programing for alumni and community members to increase engagement and create awareness about the educational opportunities available at the college. At the Chaffey College Foundation, I oversee fundraising operations, the student scholarship program and work with a dedicated team on the board of directors to advance the mission of the college. I previously helped to pass Measure P in November of 2018, a $700 million bond that will help transform and expand the college’s facilities to serve the next generations of students. I also serve as the president-elect for the Rancho Cucamonga Chamber of Commerce, and on the executive board for the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce. One of my great joys is serving on the Women of Hope, which supports the Hope Through Housing Foundation. I also serve as a mentor in the Who’s Your Hero program through the Women on the Move Network based in Rancho Cucamonga.
2. Who is the most influential woman you’ve known? How has she inspired you?
The most influential woman I’ve known is my mother, Karen Parsons. As a young child I watched her go back to school to earn her college degree. She often would tell me she went back to school so her daughters would never be able to ask her, “Why do I need a college degree? You don’t have one.” That memory has stuck with me my whole life. Leadership and love are best demonstrated by example. As a single parent finishing my master’s degree this year, I often look to this memory when I think I don’t have what it takes. I know my own daughter is watching my example – and that will impact her future choices. Leadership with our children is just as important as in our organizations.
3. What progress for women have you seen in your lifetime?
As a high school student, I would often note the lack of senior level leadership held by women. This was true in public school administration, in organizations and in government. The most notable progress in my life time is watching the first female vice president be sworn into office. Watching that historic moment with my own daughter was a treasured experience. I cried – knowing how important this moment was not only to women – but women of color. I hope young girls look to Vice President Kamala Harris and think – I can see myself leading the nation.
4. What are some practical ways that modern women can support women’s empowerment?
The best way women can support women’s empowerment is to start by empowering each other. Be generous and vocal in your encouragement of your female friends and colleagues – and especially your family. Also – get involved in your community. Volunteer at local non-profits, seek leadership opportunities and become a mentor. Not only do women need to empower each other – we need to empower the next generation of female leaders.
5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received from another woman of influence?
“What other people think about you is none of your business.”
6. Why do we need more women in leadership?
Representation matters – and it is imperative women’s’ voices are heard at the highest levels of organizations and in government office. Research has documented a lack of females in leadership roles in the upper echelons of organizations, particularly in executive vice president and above roles. Although the percentage of females in the U.S. workforce has risen to 52% (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020), similar gains in executive-level roles have not been realized - and we need to change that! When looking at CEO positions in the Standard and Poor’s (S & P) top 500 companies, only 4% are held by women!
7. What advice would you give a young woman entering the workforce?
Seek out a mentor – and find opportunities to mentor students exploring career options. Be brave and bold in your dreams – and don’t be afraid to seek leadership opportunities within your organization. Learning to harness the power of your voice is one of the most important parts of leadership development – as is collaboration. No one succeeds alone.
8. What does women’s history mean to you?
Women’s history month is a time to honor those that have come before us. I think to my great, great grandmother who came from Latvia through Ellis Island – with her two young children. When I feel like shrinking into the background because it is easier – or I don’t have what it takes – I think of the adversity faced. She wanted a better life for herself and her girls so badly she risked their lives to get here. Seeking ways to mentor other women, and encouraging my daughter Samantha is my way of honoring my Latvian family.
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