INTRO SPOTLIGHT: SEAN DUFFY
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a second year student at Calfiornia Western School of Law, but I have already had a pretty varied career concentrated on problem solving. Before attending law school, I graduated with a degree in political science from UC Davis and spent several years in political campaign work. I used my experience creating campaigns to build up an insurtech in Carlsbad in 2020, which I exited a few years later. Shortly after, I served as a director for a local nonprofit focused on victim/offender reconciliation.
I enjoy deconstructing systems and finding logical connections, even in my free time. I am a massive soccer fan and can be found at almost every San Diego FC game as a leader of Frontera SD, the Supporters Union for the club.
How did you become interested in Circulate San Diego?
I was born and raised in Santa Ana, but fell in love with San Diego when I moved here for my first job out of college. Immediately, it was clear that the biggest barrier to staying permanently was the lack of desirable housing for my income level. This included access to effective public transit and the ability to bike or walk to work. I was peripherally aware of Circulate San Diego, but learned more about the organization when Colin Parent spoke to the Urban Planning course at Cal Western. Colin spoke to the exact concerns I have and detailed how the organization works to improve our City. I am excited to play even a small part in helping Circulate SD’s goals come to fruition.
What’s your most memorable face palm moment? Or what is your biggest achievement to date? Choose one.
Before my now-wife and I were married, we took a trip together to San Francisco. We saved money by taking a very early flight and she was going to meet me at my apartment so we could leave together. But, I did not wake up with my alarm. Nor with her knocking and calling my phone. And she did not want to disturb the neighbors at 3 am, so she could only knock and yell so loud.
After about 20 minutes of constant knocking at my front door, I finally woke up. I had to grab my things as quickly as possible while brushing my teeth and apologizing over and over. Somehow this wasn’t a dealbreaker and we even made our flight, vindicating my dad’s programming to arrive at the airport at least two hours before takeoff.
If you could choose anyone, who would you pick as your mentor?
Fred Rogers (thee Mr. Rogers) for his demeanor, commitment to leaving the world a better place, and his creativity, among many other reasons.
