Tanya Mendez is a first-generation Latina with a global perspective shaped by experience in both developed and developing countries. She is passionate about advancing human and civil rights, international trade, and economic policy. Her career spans government, nonprofit leadership, and consulting, where she has driven strategic initiatives in public service, policy advocacy, and program development.

She most recently served as a Special Advisor to the Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of Commerce, leading cross-departmental initiatives on global competitiveness and supply chains. Previously, as a Special Assistant at the Department of Commerce, she managed executive communications, policy briefings, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring alignment with federal priorities. Her background also includes nonprofit leadership at LULAC (League of United Latin American Citizens), where she oversaw national programs in health, immigration, and social innovation while coordinating legislative lobbying efforts.

Tanya has also worked in consulting, designing strategic communications plans and facilitating policy discussions on disinformation, immigration, and climate change within Latino communities. She thrives in dynamic environments requiring strategic thinking, cross-sector collaboration, and results-driven leadership. 

Tanya holds a Bachelor’s degree in Global/International Studies and Political Science from the University of California, Irvine and is currently based in Washington, D.C.