COHA Statement on Dr. Hector Perla

On the morning of February 1, 2017, COHA learned that Dr. Hector Perla, a former extra-mural senior research fellow affiliated with the organization, had been a party to a Title IX settlement while a faculty member at the University of California, Santa Cruz. This settlement follows a report of inappropriate conduct toward a female student at the university. Dr. Perla’s affiliation with the organization was brief, but ended for unrelated reasons in October 2016. At no point before, during or after his affiliation with the organization, was COHA made aware of any investigation or allegation concerning Dr. Perla. He has, at present, no relationship with COHA.

COHA is a non-profit organization that was established in 1975 to promote the common interests of the hemisphere, raise the visibility of regional affairs and increase the importance of the inter-American relationship, as well as encourage the formulation of rational and constructive U.S. policies towards hemispheric nations. Throughout the years, COHA has been at the forefront of the promotion of human rights, as well as women’s rights, throughout the region. Senior Research Fellows are renowned or promising scholars who have distinguished themselves in the region. COHA’s Senior Research Fellows have volunteered to help in the promotion of COHA’s mission on a short-term basis, through providing essential support services to our Research Associates through the writing and editorial processes. Additionally, they occasionally contribute original research to the organization for publication, as well as participate in interviews by media outlets on COHA’s behalf. Senior Research Fellows are based out of their affiliated universities and do not have a space assigned to them on a permanent basis at COHA’s Washington office.

Larry Birns
Director, Council on Hemispheric Affairs