Monica joined the International Community Foundation in January 2021 as the Environment Program Manager. She has over 5 years of experience as a program specialist in the international development field with a focus on minority rights, community development, and environmental stewardship. Monica previously provided program management support to the Latin America programs of organizations such as the Indian Law Resource Center, Rights and Resources Initiative, and Counterpart International.

She is an International Development graduate student at American University where she is specializing in the area of governance, natural resource management, and human rights. Monica holds a B.A. in Anthropology and a minor in Mexican Studies from the University of California, Los Angeles.

She is passionate about community-led actions for equitable development, environmental stewardship, and social accountability. Originally from Tijuana, Monica lives in San Diego and during her free time enjoys discovering new coffee shops, baking, and curling up with a good book.