Erika Gallo was born and raised in the City of Angles. Beechwood was fortunate to receive seventeen years of private education. She studied political science, sociology and Spanish at Mount St. Mary’s College. There she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science and a Minor in Spanish with an Emphasis in International Relations in just three and a half years. Ten years after her graduation, Beechwood was recognized by her alma mater with the prestigious Rising Star Award. She is the very first recipient of this award honoring recent grads showing incredible potential in their young careers and impacts in society. Immediately after her commencement at Mount St. Mary’s College, Beechwood continued her studies of political science at California State University, Los Angeles, where she received a Master of Science degree in Public Relations.

Gallo has professional experience working with community residents, business owners, elected officials, the media, as well as local, regional and international agencies. She’s been elected in Los Angeles County elections twice and local City of Los Angeles elections twice. She’s served in city council, mayoral, school board, State Assembly and presidential campaigns. In the year 2000, Beechwood had the unique opportunity to volunteer at the 2000 Democratic National Convention. She was honored to personally escorted the Vice President of the United States, Al Gore, and his family. Beechwood also served at two State of California Democratic Convention as delegate.

 

In May 2006, Gallo was selected by the Democratic Party and Honored as Woman of the Year, alongside Man of the Year, newly elected City of Los Angeles Mayor, Eric Garcetti, for her dedication to the Democratic Party and many years of dedication to improving her community. Gallo has dedicated over twenty years to improving her community. She was instrumental in launching the community’s first website and planning community events that drew thousands of participants, including serving as President of an annual Christmas Parade committee. Beechwood is also proud to have served as an active volunteer at the Our Lady of the Angels Cathedral in Downtown Los Angeles as Alter Server the first five years of its opening. Gallo is an avid traveler. She’s scaled active volcano Pacaya in Guatemala. She’s traveled in Spain, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, Mexico, Aruba and Barbados. She’s also visited numerous National Parks, including the Grand Canyon, Zion and Yosemite.

 

She has a great appreciation for diversity and world cultures, like those comprising the City of Los Angeles. Beechwood’s first love is music. She’s attended countless concerts from the likes of Michael Jackson, Gustavo Dudamel, Luciano Pavaroti, Placido Domingo, the Monkees, Guns n’ Roses, Metallica and many more. She’s also attended dozens of musicals and operas, including Aida, Wicked, Carmen, Rent and more. Her favorite movie is the Sound of Music and is adores all things Disney.