Marian Vidaurri, Political Scientist and Economist: More Than a Decade of Experience With OAS
By Space Coast Daily // September 28, 2024
A government and economics specialist, academic, and key figure in renowned organizations such as FUSADES and the Organization of American States (OAS), Marian Vidaurri is an executive and political scientist with a solid background in politics and democracy.
Throughout her 12-year career at the OAS, Vidaurri worked with various diplomatic, political and social actors, as well as dissident groups in the Western Hemisphere. This allowed her to develop an understanding of the workings of government and high-level policy-making processes, applying this knowledge usefully to the priorities of different companies and organizations.
Prior to her professional journey, Marian Vidaurri built a solid academic background at several prestigious academic institutions. In 2003, she obtained a B.A. in Government and Economics from Cornell University. Subsequently, she continued her studies in International Economics, Democracy and Latin American Studies through the Cornell Abroad Program at The London School of Economics and Political Science. In 2006, Vidaurri earned a Master’s degree in Latin American Studies from the University of Oxford and, in 2016, completed a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Pennsylvania. She recently concluded a doctorate in International Affairs at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS).
An overview of Marian Vidaurri’s professional career: from FUSADES to OAS
Over the past decade, Marian Vidaurri has played a pivotal role in the General Secretariat of the Organization of American States (OAS), from June 2012 to August 2024. In her role within the main regional forum for dialogue, policy analysis and decision-making on Hemispheric affairs, Vidaurri has actively contributed to the team of OAS authorities, including the Secretary General, participating in formulating and implementing policies to strengthen democracy in the region.
During her time at the OAS, Vidaurri was instrumental in promoting transparency and governance initiatives, working closely with various institutions and member states to manage initiatives that promote citizen participation, democratic practices, and respect for human rights.
Prior to joining the OAS, Marian Vidaurri began her professional career as country editor for Estrategia & Negocios magazine in Central America. She then became director of the Political Studies Department at FUSADES, in San Salvador, El Salvador, from September 2009 to October 2010. This think tank and research center is dedicated to promoting the economic and social progress of Salvadorans through sustainable development.
At FUSADES, Vidaurri conducted policy studies and provided valuable analysis for decisions in both the public and private sectors. Her work in that organization left a significant mark on the academic and political community in El Salvador, establishing a solid foundation for her later career at the Organization of American States.
Marian Vidaurri has excelled in the field of academic and professional development in a remarkable way. Between January and June 2020, she participated as a visiting scholar in the Latin American and Latino Studies Program at the University of Pennsylvania. During this period, she co-taught an undergraduate course on International Organizations in Latin America and produced a research paper examining the role of these organizations in the Venezuelan crisis.
In terms of her community involvement, Vidaurri has been active in a variety of service activities since 2008. She was a member of the first board of directors of Glasswing International in El Salvador. Currently, she is a member of the Board of Directors of the Center for Culture, Art, Training, and Education (CCATE), an organization dedicated to promoting culture, art, training, and education for the migrant community in Pennsylvania. Her involvement with CCATE underscores her commitment to initiatives that foster educational and holistic social development within the immigrant community.
Born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico, Marian Vidaurri has taken her experience and expertise to an international scale, making valuable contributions in diverse contexts. Her professional trajectory is an example of dedication and work in the fields of politics, multilateralism, and diplomacy, maintaining a constant presence and a methodical and professional approach that have marked her career.
