A Meeting with the Mayor of Long Beach
Currently serving as the mayor since 2022, is Rex Richardson. Before becoming mayor, he served as a Long Beach council member from 2014 to 2022 and vice mayor from 2016 to 2022. His rise through public service has been historic, as he became the youngest council member and the second-youngest mayor in Long Beach history.
During the conversation, Richardson reflected on his college experience and how it prepared him for leadership. He attended California State University, Dominguez Hills in the early 2000s, serving as Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) president from 2001 to 2003 and earning his bachelor's degree in 2020. Looking back, he emphasized that every experience, no matter how small, helped prepare him for the opportunities that followed. "Everything you do from college until now builds on one another,” he said.
As a first-generation college student, Richardson understood the importance of getting involved beyond the classroom. He joined organizations such as ASI, not only to build connections but to create opportunities for personal and professional growth. That mindset, he explained, helped set the foundation for his future career in public service.
One of the most memorable parts of the discussion was hearing how Richardson approaches his role as mayor. His job is to not simply lead the city, but to make opportunities and pathways easier for the people of Long Beach. When faced with difficult situations, he intentionally removes himself from the equation and asks a different question: "What can the mayor do to help?" This perspective allows him to focus on serving the community rather than his own personal interests.
Richardson also spoke passionately about his vision for Long Beach. He believes in intentionally highlighting the city's unique culture, identity, and talent. He pointed to examples such as presenting Snoop Dogg with a key to the city, helping bring major events like the Warped Tour and the Long Beach Grand Prix to the community and preparing the city to host Olympic events. He also discussed efforts to improve infrastructure, including redeveloping the former Civic Center site into housing, attracting companies like SpaceX, and supporting the construction of a new amphitheater.
Beyond policy and development, Richardson offered a more personal perspective on what keeps him motivated. On the most challenging days, he draws strength from his family, particularly his daughters, Alina and Mila. He also credits his faith for helping him stay grounded, stating, "God placed us here." For Richardson, leadership is rooted in both responsibility and purpose.
Richardson outlined three qualities he believes are essential for anyone looking to grow professionally and create new opportunities.
First, he emphasized being humble and understanding how to carry oneself in professional environments. Second, he stressed the importance of being hungry, maintaining the drive to improve and pursue the next opportunity. Finally, he encouraged being smart, particularly when it comes to building and navigating relationships.
He also highlighted the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. Richardson explained that everyone should have different circles in their lives. A mentor circle consists of people who can challenge, guide, and elevate you, while a close circle includes those who allow you to be your authentic self without judgment. Building both, he suggested, is essential to long-term success.
Perhaps the most lasting takeaway from the conversation was Richardson's reminder to make yourself memorable. Through involvement, hard work, and meaningful relationships, he believes people can position themselves for future opportunities. His own journey from student leader to mayor serves as an example of how preparation, persistence, and community engagement can create pathways to success.
For students, Richardson's story was more than a lesson in politics. It was a reminder that leadership begins long before a title is earned and that the choices made today can build the foundation for opportunities tomorrow.
