Faculty

Angelica Cortez (she/her) is a Los Angeles-born arts administrator and educator. She is the Executive Director of the Suzuki Association of the Americas, where she supports an international community of over 7,000 educators, artists, and leaders who believe in the transformative power of music. In her role, she advances Suzuki music education, ensuring that more young people have access to education that supports their creativity and well-being. Cortez also serves on the faculty and as Interim Director of Arts Leadership at USC Thornton School of Music. She supports leaders interested in bettering our arts landscape through their artistic and creative practices. 

She served as Interim President and CEO of El Sistema USA, and before that was part of the Learning Department of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, leading YOLA (Youth Orchestra Los Angeles) and YOLA National, Gustavo Dudamel’s signature program focused on access and equity in music education. Cortez is an alum of Sphinx LEAD, and is an active speaker, educator and consultant. She is on the Board of Directors for From the Top and the International Suzuki Association. Outside of her work and healthy obsession with education, she loves cooking, writing, running, reading, and her community.