The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation Announces the Appointment of Dr. Debra Duardo to the Board of Directors
Dr. Debra Duardo, Director, RMPF Board of Directors
February 26, 2026 (Los Angeles, CA) — The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Debra Duardo, M.S.W., Ed.D. to its Board of Directors. A nationally recognized leader in public education, Dr. Duardo exemplifies the Foundation’s deep commitment to improving quality of life and advancing community well-being across Los Angeles County.
As the Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Duardo leads one of the largest regional education agencies in the nation, overseeing 80 K-12 school districts serving more than 1.3 million students. Spanning more than three decades, Dr. Duardo’s career has included senior leadership roles across education and behavioral health systems, with a focus on educational equity and access, integrated student supports, trauma-informed practice, and expanding opportunities for children and families. She is widely recognized for building collaborative partnerships and advancing approaches that connect schools, health, and community-based services.
Parsons Board Chair Manuel A. Abascal reflects Board and staff enthusiasm about the appointment: “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Duardo to the Board. Her extraordinary accomplishments and commitment to children, families, and communities across LA County make her exceptionally well-suited for our work. She brings insight, integrity, and systems-level perspective that will strengthen our governance and our impact.”
“Dr. Duardo is a respected and forward-looking leader whose career reflects both innovation and service,” said President & CEO Jennifer Price-Letscher. “Her experience bridging education, health, and community partnerships will add tremendous value to the Foundation as we continue to advance strategies that promote long-term community well-being.”
ABOUT THE RALPH M. PARSONS FOUNDATION
Established in 1961, The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation improves quality of life for people in Los Angeles through impactful grants and strategic initiatives that advance community well-being. Last year, the Foundation awarded over $19 million in grants to nonprofits promoting civic and cultural vitality, education and economic mobility, health care access and quality, and stability and essential supports among LA County’s most vulnerable residents. In support of its mission, the Foundation also collaborates with public and private partners on initiatives designed to maximize the effectiveness of grantees and support the local nonprofit sector.
For more information, contact:
President & CEO, Jennifer Price-Letscher