Board of Directors
Mesa Abierta’s board reflects a shared passion for community-centered work rooted in culture, collaboration, and connection around the table.
Vicky Garcia
Vicky is an entrepreneur, cultural advocate, and the creative force behind Rice, Beans & Happiness and Mesa Abierta. She blends culinary tradition with community impact, teaching, feeding, and uplifting families across the Seattle area while championing Latin heritage with heart, precision, and joy. During her years serving on the PTSA while her children were young, and later on the board of the National Charity League, she deepened her commitment to community building and service, creating meaningful connections that continue to shape her work today. A proud mom to a 21‑year‑old daughter in college and a 17‑year‑old high schooler and musician, and married to her husband Jerry for 23 years, Vicky roots her work in family, culture, and the belief that everyone deserves a seat at the table.
Why Mesa Abierta:
Because our traditions deserve celebration and space to grow. Mesa Abierta exists to keep Latin heritage alive through food, storytelling, and community connection, especially at a time when cultural identity can be overlooked or diluted. We create a place where our families, flavors, and stories stay strong and continue forward.
Founder & President
Angelina Durbin
Angelina is an Environmental Public Health student at the University of Washington who serves as the Food Recovery Coordinator for the UW Food Pantry. Her work focuses on reducing food waste and improving access to culturally relevant, nutritious food for students experiencing food insecurity. She is committed to building equitable food systems that center community, sustainability, and resilience.
Why Mesa Abierta:
I’m drawn to Mesa Abierta’s commitment to sustaining Latin culture through food and community. In my role, I focus on connecting families with culturally relevant recovered meals from local catering businesses. I’m proud to be a part of an organization that uplifts culture, builds partnerships, and strengthens food access in the Latin community.
Vice President
Felipe Garcia
Treasurer
Felipe E. García serves as Treasurer of Mesa Abierta, bringing more than four decades of financial leadership and a deep commitment to family and community. Originally from Mexico City, Felipe moved to the Pacific Northwest more than 21 years. Now retired, he dedicates his time to supporting his grandchildren, staying closely involved in family projects, and contributing his steady guidance to Mesa Abierta. Felipe’s extensive background in finance, operations, and small‑business management strengthens the organization’s foundation as it grows its mission of cultural connection and community nourishment.
Why Mesa Abierta:
I choose to support Mesa Abierta because I believe deeply in its mission to preserve Latin heritage, expand cultural education, and provide nourishment and connection to local families. After more than four decades in financial leadership, I see Mesa Abierta as a place where my experience can directly strengthen a growing nonprofit and help ensure long‑term stability, transparency, and impact.
Secretary
Nell Baker
Nell Baker brings experience in operations, partnerships, and community organization, with a background spanning technology, nonprofit support, and local leadership initiatives. As Board Secretary for Mesa Abierta, she helps support organizational development, partnerships, and community outreach efforts as well as being the lead on Funding and Grant Programs.
Why Mesa Abierta:
I am drawn to Mesa Abierta’s mission because of its focus on connection through food, culture, and storytelling. I believe deeply in the power of community-centered work that creates belonging while uplifting voices and traditions.
Nancy Storment
Marketing
Nancy is a multichannel marketing leader with broad experience working with some of the world’s most valuable brands. She is a community‑centered leader focused on weaving together culture and service. She brings a heartfelt, collaborative spirit to programs that uplift local voices and create welcoming spaces where everyone can share in meaningful, culturally rooted experiences.
Why Mesa Abierta
Culture is a vital part of who we are, and sharing it helps people connect and better understand one another and the world around them. When we share our culture, we help others feel recognized and included. Growing up in Los Angeles with a Latina mother and a large Hispanic family, I treasure memories of celebrating with my cousins, aunts, and uncles. Keeping these Latin traditions alive—and inviting others into them—matters now more than ever.
Communications and Community Outreach
Sarai is a community-focused creator and mother dedicated to building spaces where families feel seen, supported, and connected. Her work blends motherhood, sensory play, and cultural storytelling to bring people together in meaningful, accessible ways.
Why Mesa Abierta:
I am drawn to Mesa Abierta because of its commitment to community, dignity, and shared humanity through food and gathering. I believe in the power of simple, intentional spaces where people can connect across cultures and experiences, and I want to contribute to that kind of meaningful, inclusive work.