BIO
David Quan was born in Houston in August 1960. For much of his childhood, Mr. Quan’s parents owned and operated a grocery store in the East End of the city, where he grew up and worked alongside his four siblings. He recalls his school years as one of few Asian students in the area and early family influences on his own community-based values. At the University of Texas at Austin, Mr. Quan earned his Bachelor of Arts in History, Masters in Public Affairs, and Doctor of Jurisprudence. With outside encouragement, in addition to his existing interest in public policy, Mr. Quan came to embrace studies in liberal arts and a career in law. He describes this period and his professional beginnings as valuable experiences. He held a number of judicial clerkships and, at times, served as a part-time judge while simultaneously working for private practices in Texas and California. Eventually, Mr. Quan began to practice employment litigation. Since 2005, he has worked as a labor and employment attorney at his own law office. With abundant experience representing both management and individuals, Mr. Quan views the field as a “front line” of social change. In addition to formal involvement in several local organizations at different points in his career, Mr. Quan speaks on his goals of fostering and supporting connections with the people in his life. He also offers reflections on Asian American identity and community. Finally, Mr. Quan shares about his current life in Houston with his wife, Rachel, and their son, Nate.