Dr. Sharona Nazarian,the first woman of Iranian descent to serve as Mayor of Beverly Hills, is a model of dedicated civic leadership grounded in community connection, public service, and a deep-rooted passion for giving back.
A resident of Beverly Hills for over 30 years, Dr. Nazarian brings a wealth of experience as an immigrant, accomplished leader, and advocate for sustainability, public health, and human rights.
Sharona’s journey in public service is characterized by her unwavering commitment to the people of Beverly Hills and she is not afraid to think big.
Never far from her mind is the future of new generations, including her three sons, now young adults. Sharona’s Innovation Circle, a group of 18 to 28-year-olds, offers a youthful vision and advises her on programs and policies that appeal to young people.
Nor has she forgotten her elders. Her popular Social Sundays bring young people to a local park to meet with seniors and play games, such as backgammon and lawn bowling, or just talk.
Before being elected mayor, Sharona was a Public Works commissioner, championing key sustainability initiatives. Among her most notable contributions is her leadership in the Disposable Foodware Accessories Ordinance and her advocacy for the RethinkBHTap campaign, which promotes Beverly Hills’ high-quality tap water and reduces reliance on plastic bottles. These efforts reflect her proactive approach to environmental stewardship.
Dr. Nazarian was also appointed to the Climate Plan Community Task Force, where she focuses on creating a safe, inclusive, and future-ready Beverly Hills. Her work consistently emphasizes forward-thinking policies, prioritizing community voices while fostering innovation.
Beyond environmental advocacy, Dr. Nazarian has had a long-standing impact on public health and human relations. As past chair of the Beverly Hills Human Relations Commission, she launched the Civility Statement, which is now read at all City Commission meetings, and initiated cultural roundtables to foster interfaith unity. Her efforts supported local anti-bullying campaigns, demonstrating her inclusive and compassionate leadership.
Sharona’s public health contributions extend to the Los Angeles County Commission for Alcohol and Other Drugs, where she served as chair. She re-drafted the mission statement there and helped restructure long-term goals to better serve the community, gaining her the respect and support of the County. Her policy work was grounded in inclusiveness and responsiveness to evolving social challenges.
Dr. Nazarian’s civic engagement spans various organizations. She has served as the Immediate Past President of the Rotary Club of Beverly Hills, Treasurer for the Beverly Hills Residents Association, a Maple Counseling Center board member, and on the Beverly Hills Police Chief’s Advisory Board. Her leadership within faith-based and philanthropic organizations, including Sinai Temple and Friends of Israeli Disabled Veterans, reflects her deep commitment to local and global communities.
Educationally, Dr. Nazarian holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology from the University of Southern California, graduating with highest honors. She earned her doctorate in clinical psychology from Alliance University, specializing in Multicultural Psychology — a focus that has shaped her inclusive leadership style.
Today, as Mayor, Dr. Nazarian is committed to public safety, using technology as force multiplier, upgrading city infrastructure, and supporting schools and families. She brings a “residents first” mindset to every decision and advocates transparency, consensus-building, and enhanced quality of life.
Some of her 14 initiatives focus on bettering not only her immediate community but beyond. ‘Never Again is Now’ is both a rallying cry and a new series of programs in Beverly Hills that deal directly with intolerance. She recently hosted a panel discussion on the Diversity of the Jewish Experience; and is planning a groundbreaking ceremony for a memorial honoring the victims of the Oct. 7 massacre. It will be the first such memorial in the United States.
Dr. Sharona Nazarian is not just a public figure but a dynamic force for good in Beverly Hills. Her leadership is thoughtful, visionary, and grounded in decades of meaningful service. As the city looks to the future, her passion and innovative thinking continue to shape a stronger, more connected, and sustainable Beverly Hills. To learn more about Mayor Nazarian’s initiatives, go to www.beverlyhills.org/mayorinitiatives or follow her on social media @sharona4bh.