President & CEO Column
This past summer underscored just how dynamic and interconnected the political, economic and environmental currents across the Americas have become. From on-going economic uncertainties and inflationary pressures (due in part to shifting U.S. trade policies), extreme weather events (including deadly wildfires, flooding and hurricanes) to growing demands for technology and energy due to the rising demands of AI and data centers, the region is at a challenging crossroad. Governments and businesses alike are grappling with how to harness innovation while advancing sustainable growth—a challenge that sits at the heart of the Institute of the Americas’ mission.
In August, IOA convened a timely forum in Santiago, Chile focused on data centers, artificial intelligence and energy. The discussion brought together regional leaders, investors, and policymakers to examine Latin America’s growing role in hosting critical digital infrastructure. With AI’s energy demands poised to surge, the forum explored opportunities for cross-border collaboration to ensure that this growth is powered by clean, resilient systems and those countries across Latin America best positioned for future investment.
IOA’s engagement in Chile continued in September with our participation at OLADE’s Energy Week, where the Institute shared insights from our recent work on sustainable mobility. As ports from Mexico to the Southern Cone prepare for future decarbonization mandates, IOA is also helping support policies and investment pathways that balance regional economic competitiveness priorities with net zero imperatives.
Most recently, IOA presented at the 3rd Foro de Economía y Crecimiento Azul in Cancún, Quintana Roo, highlighting the economic promise of the blue economy and the need for coordinated action to safeguard marine ecosystems while expanding sustainable coastal development.
As we advance these initiatives, I am delighted to share news of IOA’s 2025-2026 Diplomatic Fellow, Chris Nyce, who began his service with the Institute in August. We also bid farewell to Bridget Premont who completed her tenure as IOA’s 2nd Diplomatic Fellow in early August and has now returned to Washington, D.C. to continue her service with the U.S. State Department.
We are also excited to announce the addition of three new colleagues to strengthening our team. Elizabeth Mosqueda, a seasoned climate policy and finance leader, is IOA’s new head of our Environment Program, based out of Mexico City. Camilo Velandia Perico, a global expert on shipping decarbonization and based in Bogota, joins IOA as a Non-Resident Fellow to support our sustainable shipping initiative. Marianne Feldmann has also joined our team as our new Environment Program Assisistant. Their collective expertise will significantly expand IOA’s ability to serve as a catalyst for climate action and innovation throughout the hemisphere.
Finally, it is with deep gratitude that IOA announces the retirement of Sherry White, who concluded an extraordinary 34-year tenure of service and leadership with the Institute over the summer.
The months ahead promise to be equally full of opportunity—and urgency. I am grateful for your continued support as we work to build a more sustainable, resilient, and economically competitive Americas.
Richard Kiy
President & CEO
Institute of the Americas