The new United States ambassador to Costa Rica, Melinda Hildebrand, has presented copies of her credentials to Arnoldo André, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship. The presentation took place in San José on January 6, 2026.
Hildebrand holds a degree in Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin and additional legal studies from the Southwestern Paralegal Institute. She is fluent in Spanish and French.
Her background includes significant experience in philanthropy, business, and public service. She has led initiatives focused on education, health care, and community support. Hildebrand previously served as president of the Hildebrand Foundation, where she supported higher education programs, medical services, parks development, addiction-related projects, and assistance for victims of human trafficking for sexual exploitation—especially in Houston.
Throughout her career, Hildebrand has held advisory or executive roles with various educational and cultural institutions as well as nonprofit organizations. These include St. Thomas University, the James Beard Foundation, Partnership to End Addiction, The Museum of Fine Arts (Houston), MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston Parks Board, and Junior League of Houston.
Her international volunteer work has included building homes for families in need in both Costa Rica and Mexico.
