Karina Chavez de Urueta is a humanitarian professional with extensive experience advancing protection, development, and cross sector collaboration across national and international contexts. She holds degrees in Spanish and social sciences from Texas Tech University and a graduate degree in strategic communication from American University.

Across roles at the Boys and Girls Club of America, the International Rescue Committee, the International Monetary Fund, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), she has managed complex humanitarian caseloads, overseen public grants supporting development macroeconomic priorities, and strengthened partnerships at the intersection of humanitarian response and sustainable development. As a Private Sector Partnerships Officer for UNHCR’s Americas region, she grew a regional donor portfolio, contributed to the regional response strategy, and supported multi-functional UN collaborations to expand protection and durable solutions for displaced populations worldwide. Today at USA for UNHCR, she connects influential US corporate allies to the refugee cause, harnessing life-saving resources and durable solutions for people in crises.

A native of Houston, Texas, Karina is firmly rooted in one of the fastest growing and economically diverse regions. Deeply connected to her hometown’s dynamic immigrant and diaspora communities, she credits these ties to her strong commitment to service, collaboration, and ethical leadership.

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