With more than five decades of experience, Maria Garcia Berry has played a pivotal role in shaping public-private partnerships, leading major civic projects, and driving policy initiatives that have transformed Denver’s economic and political landscape. Known for her ability to navigate complex challenges, she has built a reputation as a leader who consistently works toward solutions that benefit all parties involved. In 1981, Garcia Berry founded CRL Associates, a leading public affairs firm she led for 43 years, guiding organizations through intricate policy environments and fostering strategic partnerships across Colorado and the nation. Under her leadership, the firm became nationally recognized for anticipating challenges and positioning clients for long-term success.

A Cuban American immigrant, Garcia Berry’s path to leadership began when she arrived in the United States as a child through Operation Pedro Pan, which brought approximately 14,000 unaccompanied children from Cuba between 1960 and 1962. These early experiences shaped her deep commitment to mentorship, entrepreneurship, and immigrant advocacy. She currently serves as chair of the Biennial of the Americas and has held leadership roles with the Cuba Emprende Foundation and the Cuba Study Group, supporting initiatives that expand economic opportunity and cultural exchange. She also played a key role in elevating Denver on the global stage during the inaugural Cities Summit of the Americas in 2023.

Her contributions have been widely recognized, including the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Denver Business Journal’s Outstanding Women in Business program and the Individual Award for International Women’s Day from WorldDenver. She has also been honored as a Woman of Distinction by the Colorado Girl Scouts, named one of the 25 Most Powerful Women by the Colorado Women’s Chamber, and recognized as the 2025 Woman of the Year by the Colorado State Chamber for her impact on the state’s business community and dedication to fostering leadership. She currently serves on the boards of the Biennial of the Americas, the UMB Financial Advisory Board, and the Front Range Passenger Rail Commission, and recently completed her role as chairwoman of the RTD Accountability Committee created by the Colorado General Assembly.