Mariela Hernandez guides U.S. Energy Foundation’s strategies to build public support for clean energy and climate policies in the West. Working in the region and in close partnership with campaign experts in both U.S. Energy Foundation’s San Francisco office and other regional offices, she designs and funds strategies that create the diverse coalitions and collaborations needed to meet the ambitious state policy goals in the power, buildings, transportation, and climate sectors.

Prior to joining U.S. Energy Foundation, Mariela was Nevada State Director for The Impact Project based in Las Vegas, where she advanced state-level economic and democracy policies  by providing communications, advocacy, and organizing resources as well as grantmaking dollars to partners in the state, along with other duties. She previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff to Congresswoman Jacky Rosen, advising her on policy and legislation. She also held various roles with U.S. Senator Harry Reid, most recently as Southern Nevada Deputy Director.