Mayor Bass Charges New General Manager with Reenergizing El Pueblo Ahead of Major Events
First-Ever Latina to Lead El Pueblo
LOS ANGELES – Mayor Karen Bass announced today that she has appointed Domenika Lynch to serve as the new General Manager of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, which includes the historic Olvera Street and Pico House. With extensive experience leading mission-driven philanthropic organizations and creating spaces where communities can thrive, Ms. Lynch will advance Mayor Bass’ vision to reenergize El Pueblo and prepare the site to welcome the world as Los Angeles hosts several major events. Her appointment marks a significant milestone as she will become the first Latina to lead El Pueblo – a meaningful step forward for this City. With a strong track record in stakeholder engagement, fundraising, strategic planning and coalition-building across sectors, Ms. Lynch has dedicated her career to uplifting and expanding opportunity for Latino and other underrepresented communities across the country. Ms. Lynch’s headshot is available here.
“El Pueblo is not only the birthplace of Los Angeles, but a cultural anchor with restaurants and small businesses right in the heart of downtown Los Angeles,” said Mayor Karen Bass. “Especially during this challenging time for immigrant communities, El Pueblo needs a leader who can marshal the resources needed to both preserve its history and also activate the living, working business hub and event space. I feel confident that Ms. Lynch will help bring back those who may not have visited for a while, as well as attract new visitors to El Pueblo as a lively gathering place filled with both rich history and vibrant cultural offerings and events.”
“I’m deeply honored by Mayor Bass’ trust and grateful for the opportunity to serve the City of Los Angeles,” said Domenika Lynch, El Pueblo General Manager Appointee. “I look forward to carrying forward her vision to reenergize El Pueblo and to working in close partnership with the City Council, merchants, local leaders, and the broader community. Together, we will reaffirm this historic space as a vibrant destination that reflects the soul, diversity, and promise of Los Angeles. I’m committed to mobilizing the resources, partnerships, and collective energy needed to help it thrive.”
“El Pueblo is a testament to the strength and spirit of immigrant communities who built Los Angeles. Now, more than ever, it needs bold, visionary leadership that will honor its legacy and reenergize it as a place where merchants, artists, and families thrive,” said Councilmember Ysabel Jurado, Chair of the Arts, Parks, Libraries and Community Enrichment Committee. “Domenika Lynch brings the experience and community-rooted leadership needed to meet this moment and move us forward.”
“With a wealth of experience and an unwavering dedication to excellence, Domenika steps into this role as the perfect leader at the perfect moment,” said George L. Pla, Founder & CEO, Cordoba Corporation. “I take great pride in witnessing her selection by Mayor Bass, an insightful leader who recognizes both the pressing needs of today and the boundless possibilities of tomorrow."
Ms. Lynch brings over two decades of experience in community building, fundraising and implementing strategic visions that steward resources toward communities most in need. She currently serves as Executive Director of the Aspen Institute Latinos and Society Program, where she convenes cross-sector leaders to advance economic mobility and systems change for a more prosperous America.
Previously, she served as President and CEO of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, a national nonprofit dedicated to developing the next generation of Latino leaders, and as Executive Director of the University of Southern California’s Latino Alumni Association. A USC alumna herself, Ms. Lynch began her career at Univision, writing in both Spanish and English about college access, financial aid, and scholarships — a commitment to community well-being that continues to guide her work today. Her professional background also extends into the corporate sector, with a leadership position at Bank of America and as a member of the Bank of America National Community Advisory Council.
Mayor Bass added, “I want to thank Edgar Garcia, who will continue to serve as Interim General Manager for El Pueblo until Ms. Lynch begins her position in October. His dedication to the department and deep knowledge of El Pueblo’s history and stakeholders have already brought a new energy to the place. I’m grateful that he plans to work alongside Ms. Lynch”
Ms. Lynch’s appointment will be considered by the Arts, Parks, Libraries and Community Enrichment Committee, followed by presentation to the full City Council for confirmation.