Get to Know LGBTQ&A ERG President Angela Jackson-Llamas
/
Angela Jackson-Llamas (right) and her wife.
The County has 11 great Employee Resource Groups. They are each led by respective board of directors who all demonstrate commitment and stewardship of its members to the various sectors of our community. Get to know our LGBTQ&A ERG President Angela Jackson-Llamas.
Q: How long have you worked for the County and what departments have you worked for? What do you do in your role/what are your job responsibilities?
A: I was hired in 2007 as an Associate Real Property Agent for the Dept. of General Services (DGS), Asset Management Division. I’ve only worked in this department, and I've moved up through the ranks and I'm now a Project Manager in the Real Estate section.
In my current role, my team oversees the acquisitions of property for three County departments: HHSA, DPR and PDS. For HHSA, this primarily includes the development of affordable housing on County land and the development of emergency housing options (shelters). For DPR this includes the acquisition of open space for inclusion into County preserves as well as future active parks and trails. Finally, for PDS this includes the acquisition of Agricultural Easements, designed to conserve properties only for agricultural uses, that could’ve have otherwise been developed.
Q: What’s your workplace superpower?
A: I think I’ve got a pretty cool ability to juggle dozens of things at a time (and I kind of like it!).
Q: Who inspires you?
A: I’m very inspired by people that use their power and voice for good - who are kind and fight for equality and social justice, particularly on issues surrounding gender equality and LGBTQ rights.
Q: What are some resources that you find useful and recommend to others?
A: I’m not sure people realize what an amazing Talent Development team that we have, and the excellent training resources that are available on LMS. Also check out the “Help me know hub” on MS Teams for even more cool resources that are available to County employees.
Q: Who are you outside of work and types of activities do you enjoy?
A: I’m a big fan of urban hiking. I live in University Heights and is such a great walkable area so you will find me doing that multiple times a week. On the weekends I typically shop, brunch with friends or just relax at home with my dogs and my wife. We are also avid travelers! We take a couple vacations a year, most recently to Europe where we rented a car and drove all over England.
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: I’m passionate about travelling to new places and exploring! Oh, and also animals -particularly dogs. They may be my favorite thing in the world.
Q: Tell us about your ERG.
A: The LGBTQ&A ERG is so much fun and so important. We are much bigger than just our excellent happy hours mixers and networking opportunities (let’s be honest, we throw superior mixers 😊). We are also at the forefront of gender equality and Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) issues within the County.
Our ERG was instrumental in the adoption of DHR policy 120 - Use of Pronouns. We also routinely review training and other materials under the D&I lens, and we are a resource for employees that are experiencing issues related to their gender expression, or other related topics. As a Live Well partner, we also host excellent hikes or other similar activities a couple times a year. We offer professional development opportunities such as professional headshot photos and skill-building webinars. This is just some of the great things about our ERG!
Q: How has being in your ERG improved your experience working at the County?
A: I joined the ERG in 2016, disheartened by the tone of the climate at the time. It was important for me to get involved to help facilitate changes that were within my control. The County culture was also a very different at the time, especially on the topic of LGBTQ&A equality. So, watching the evolution of County policies, and knowing that our ERG had a hand in those positive changes is a source of pride. This has resulted in a vast improvement of my County work experience. Not to mention all the friends I’ve made along the way in many other departments!
Q: What are your 3 favorite places to eat in San Diego? Or what is your most favorite meal?
A: Sushi Deli in Mission Hills, Taste of the Himalayas on Mission Gorge Road and Plumeria Thai in University Heights. My most favorite meal is Paneer Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan.
Q: Name one (or more) musicians/bands you are listening to right now?
A: I really don't listen to a specific band as much as I listen to specific stations. My go to right now is Bossa Nova radio on Pandora when I’m relaxing or cooking, and either 80’s alternative or Nicki Minaj radio when I’m out and about!
Also read: