Family and roots
As a father, husband, and first-generation Asian American, Kent’s life has been shaped by a deep commitment to service. His parents came to the United States in search of a better life — his father’s family arriving with just $20 between them, and his mother working long hours as a garment worker, often sacrificing time with family. Their story instilled in Kent a belief that success is not just about what we achieve for ourselves, but how we give back to others.
Public service
That belief continues to guide his work on the City Council. In his first term, Kent has helped deliver more than $70 million in neighborhood investments across Mira Mesa, University City, and surrounding communities — including new parks, recreation center upgrades, youth center revitalization, and safer, repaved streets.
He has also taken a leadership role in the City’s budget process, working to preserve library and recreation center hours that families rely on, while pushing for greater transparency, fiscal responsibility, and accountability in how taxpayer dollars are spent.
Community and nonprofit leadership
Before serving on the City Council, Kent built his career in nonprofit and community leadership across San Diego. He began his career with the Boy Scouts of America, helping lead programs that served thousands of local youth, and later served as Executive Director of Pacific Arts Movement, growing one of the nation’s leading Asian American arts organizations.
Kent has also been deeply involved in the community through volunteer leadership, including the Mira Mesa Community Planning Group and local nonprofit organizations supporting small businesses and advancing equity.
Kent and his wife Phuong have lived in Mira Mesa for nearly 20 years, where they are raising their two children, Alynna and Oliver, who attend local public schools, along with their dog Lucky.
