HUMANITARIAN AWARD
Hon. Nathalie Rayes
U.S. Ambassador to Croatia (Retired)
Ambassador Nathalie Rayes is a transformational leader with decades of experience in public service, philanthropy, business strategy, advocacy, and diplomacy. She served as the 10th United States Ambassador to Croatia, in this role she advanced economic prosperity, security and cultural partnerships. Her leadership strengthened global alliances and promoted sustainability in the energy sector.
As President and CEO of Latino Victory, she mobilized millions of voters, expanded fundraising, and elevated Latino representation in leadership roles across the United States. She built governance frameworks and drove operational accountability to sustain organizational growth. As Deputy Chief of Staff to Los Angeles Mayor James K. Hahn, she oversaw intergovernmental relations and citywide initiatives. At Grupo Salinas, a leading Mexican conglomerate, she honed her expertise in corporate strategy, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and cross-border relations.
Her board service includes creating the Aspen Institute Latinos and Society Program, chairing the Hispanic Federation, and founding the Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) Binational Fellowship. She served on the boards of the Woodrow Wilson Center, U.S. Institute of Peace, and Planned Parenthood Federation of America, advancing democratic values.
Named 2014 Alumna of the Year by UCLA’s Luskin School of Public Affairs, Nathalie holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology and a Master of Public Policy from UCLA. Fluent in English and Spanish, and conversational in Arabic, she draws on her multicultural background to build bridges across diverse communities.
As a dedicated wife and mother of two, Nathalie finds joy in exploring landscapes and cultural heritage with her family. She believes deeply in the power of public service and the profound impact of representing the United States abroad, while remaining grounded in her values of equity, justice, and opportunity for all.
