The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) announced that Patricia Rojas-Ungar will lead the association’s advocacy agenda as the vice president of government affairs. Rojas-Ungar is currently vice president of public affairs at the U.S. Travel Association.
“Patricia’s deep public policy experience and proactive approach to issue advocacy are a huge asset for OIA and our efforts to advance the outdoor industry’s positive influence on families and communities,” said Amy Roberts, OIA executive director. “Patricia will bring strong leadership and a proven track record to expand our government affairs work and deepen our industry’s relationships with policymakers and stakeholders.”
In her new role leading OIA’s Washington, D.C. office, Rojas-Ungar will manage OIA’s overall government affairs programs including efforts to protect and fund outdoor recreation and lands, inform federal, state and local elected officials about the outdoor industry’s outsized economic impact, support sensible and smart tariff reforms and champion meaningful climate change mitigation strategies.
“I’m honored to join OIA and proud to represent this extraordinary industry in Washington and across the country,” Rojas-Ungar said. “The outdoor industry has long been a leader in sustainable business practices, responsible land and water stewardship and product and retail innovation. I am thrilled to support the industry’s continued growth and success.”
Her work at the U.S. Travel Association has resulted in concrete outcomes, including passing legislation to create a $200 million (per year) program to promote the United States abroad and running a public-policy campaign that resulted in a White House National Travel and Tourism Strategy. Rojas-Ungar has been honored as a top lobbyist by CEO Update, Washingtonian magazine and Association TRENDS for her effectiveness in leading U.S. Travel’s government affairs agenda. Rojas-Ungar also brings valuable experience and relationships having worked in both the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate on key federal policies such as, the DREAM Act and the 9/11 Commission reforms.
