Erika de la Garza is a senior advisor at the Center for the U.S. and Mexico. She previously directed the Baker Institute’s Latin America Initiative for nearly two decades and co-founded the Center for the U.S. and Mexico with Dr. Tony Payan.

De la Garza led a groundbreaking program between the Baker Institute and the Organization of American States, fostering collaboration and learning among emerging leaders across the Americas. She has extensive experience promoting cooperation among academics, community leaders, and policymakers in government and the private sector throughout Latin America and the United States.

In addition to her professional work, de la Garza has been deeply engaged in the nonprofit sector, serving on the boards of organizations focused on child advocacy, economic empowerment, and youth and community education. She is currently the executive director of the Africa Institute for Liver and Digestive Diseases Foundation, continuing her commitment to advancing development initiatives and global health.

De la Garza holds a master’s degree in international affairs from Columbia University and another in diplomacy from Universidad de Costa Rica, reflecting her dedication to fostering international understanding and cooperation.