Over the past decade Erika has worked as an arts administrator, youth development professional, teaching artist and performer in not only New York City, but also her native Washington D.C. area. However, her life could have taken a very different turn if it weren't for the performing arts. At eight years old, Erika was diagnosed with hearing loss and given a hearing aid. Compound this with the fact that around that time she began to struggle with her racial identity growing up in a predominantly white area. Yet through her love of music, theater and an amazing support system Erika grew into a young confident artist. 

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Erika's life changing experiences growing up as a young artist led her to attend George Mason University, where she obtained a B.A. in Music. As she embarked on her professional career, she realized arts education was such an essential part of her development and she wanted to join arts educators in their mission to enrich the lives of young people. ​

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Erika now serves as the Executive Director of the Bloomingdale School of Music. She holds a Master of Science in Arts Administration from Drexel University and is currently Secretary of the Board of Directors for the NYC Arts in Education Roundtable, and a member of the Arts Education Advisory Council of the Americans for the Arts. Previously, Erika has worked at Opening Act and The New Victory Theater (New York City) and Levine Music (Washington D.C.). She continues to perform and produces in the NYC area and is involved in various social justice and political causes.