LaShawn Parent has built a remarkable legacy in financial management defined by leadership, resilience, and commitment to excellence. As a financial management specialist with the Department of Defense, she has earned a reputation for her ability to create calm and productive work environments, solve complex problems, and mentor colleagues toward professional growth. Known for taking on challenges that others avoid or find too difficult, she has consistently demonstrated the initiative and perseverance that have propelled her success in federal service. Her active involvement with the Society of Defense Management further reflects her dedication to staying informed about industry trends and best practices, ensuring her skills and strategies remain aligned with the evolving needs of the field.
Ms. Parent’s educational background has been instrumental to her advancement and leadership. She earned a master’s degree in cyber communications from National University in San Diego, which strengthened her technical expertise and prepared her for the growing role of technology in defense finance. She also earned a master’s degree from the University of Phoenix, where she previously completed both her bachelor’s and associate degrees. Balancing rigorous coursework with the responsibilities of marriage and raising children is among her proudest achievements, reflecting the determination and resilience that have defined her career.
Ms. Parent’s academic journey was fueled by a desire to honor her mother’s legacy and to serve as a role model for her children. This motivation guided her professional trajectory, inspiring her to pursue opportunities for advancement and continuous growth. Her entry into federal service began with a temporary position at the Department of Defense. When that assignment ended, she was offered a permanent role, marking the beginning of a long and successful career built on dedication, hard work, and commitment to public service.
Before joining the Department of Defense, Ms. Parent spent a decade in the private sector, where she developed a strong foundation in finance and business operations. This early experience provided her with a comprehensive understanding of organizational structures and prepared her to navigate the more complex and specialized demands of government financial management.
Beyond her federal career, Ms. Parent has embraced entrepreneurship as a pathway to financial independence. She is a licensed realtor in Virginia and Maryland, a notary public, and the owner of a vending machine business. She also partners with mortgage companies to assist with loan signings for refinancing and second mortgages. These ventures reflect her entrepreneurial spirit and determination to build multiple income streams through self-reliance and faith.
Community service is an important part of Ms. Parent’s life. She participates in local charitable initiatives organized by a club affiliated with her husband, an Army veteran, including Thanksgiving and Christmas events that support families in need. While her work travel sometimes limits her participation, she remains deeply committed to giving back whenever possible.
Born in Washington, Ms. Parent enjoys spending her free time traveling, boating, motorcycle riding, and supporting her children’s endeavors. Her family is a significant source of pride: one of her sons serves as a police sergeant in New Jersey, another earned a degree in architecture from Morgan State University, and her daughter is pursuing a law degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.
As she prepares for retirement from federal service, Ms. Parent envisions a future where she continues to work on her own terms. She plans to grow her vending machine business, support her husband’s transportation company, and remain active as a notary and realtor while exploring new travel opportunities. Her journey is a powerful reminder that with hard work, resilience, and belief in oneself, it is possible to achieve professional success, build financial independence, and create a meaningful legacy.