Erica’s career began with a focus on nutrition and gardening education. She worked for nearly a decade at Seeds of Hope and led multiple SNAP programs, including food recovery and garden-based nutrition education. She served as a bilingual health coach for the National Diabetes Prevention Program. She’s even worked with schools to create gardens and engage students to learn where their food comes from and how to make it taste delicious. 

Erica holds a Master’s in Nutrition Education and a Bachelor’s in Public Health Promotion. She cares deeply about creating an equitable, professional workforce to improve health outcomes. After Seeds of Hope, Erica had the opportunity to work for the Pasadena Public Health Department and coordinate the training for Promotores/Community Health Workers to improve community outreach and access to health resources. Now, she is excited to join the CAF team and serve as a resource and support to all the folks working towards improving school food systems. 

Erica and her partner live in California and spend most of their time with family and being active. She loves traveling - gastronomic experiences being the main reason for all travels and outings.