Erika Payán Zanetti

Project Manager

Erika's journey at The University of Texas at Austin began in 2001 when she joined the education abroad team. Over the years, she cultivated her passion for global engagement, leading her to serve as the director of study abroad at Rice University from 2008 to 2025. However, the call of family brought her back to Austin, where she resumed her career at Texas Global as the assistant director for special initiatives.

In 2021, Erika delved deeper into international contracts administration and global outreach earned a promotion to project manager. She reported directly to the senior vice provost of global engagement and chief international officer, gaining invaluable experience for her role transition to the global initiatives and alumni relations team in 2024.

Erika's academic background includes a Master of Arts in Italian Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Italian & Spanish from The University of Texas at Austin. Her multicultural upbringing mirrors her professional journey—her Colombian father, an international student, met her native-Texan mother at Texas A&M. Similarly, Erika found a lifelong partner in her Italian spouse while he was studying as an incoming exchange student at UT Austin. Their intertwined connection to academia continues today, with Erika thriving as a dedicated staff member while her spouse, now a tenured faculty member, both contribute to UT Austin's vibrant community.

Beyond her academic endeavors, Erika is a vibrant musician, DJ, and dedicated vinyl enthusiast. She brings her diverse heritage and global perspective to life through regular gigs at local venues, including a coveted weekly residency at Austin's premier hi-fi vinyl listening lounge.

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