Erika Mitnik is the Communications Manager for strategic research initiatives at the University of Arizona Office of Research and Partnerships. Known for her collaborative approach, Erika partners closely with leadership, subject-matter experts, and creative teams to develop messaging that aligns with organizational goals and resonates with both internal and external audiences.

Prior to her work with the University of Arizona, Erika served as the Southern Arizona Director for Local First Arizona, the largest local business coalition in North America. Through her role at Local First Arizona, as well as her work with the Desert Angels and the University of Arizona FORGE (Finding Opportunities and Resources to Grow Entrepreneurs), Erika’s work has focused extensively on leveraging her skills to help launch startups and grow existing Arizona companies. She is a co-founder of the Arizona Living Economy Forum (ALEF) and an inaugural board member of the Tucson UNESCO City of Gastronomy where she works to support food-based businesses.

She has designed and executed campaigns that create lasting engagement, whether through earned media, content strategy, events or collaborative partnerships. With a strong foundation in relationship-building and storytelling, Erika brings a people-centered perspective to marketing and communications, helping organizations grow their reach while cultivating impact.