Biography

Christina Starace is the Executive Director of Development for the College of Sciences. As the college’s lead fundraiser, she leads a team of advancement professionals and partners with alumni, donors, faculty and university leadership to advance philanthropic support for the college’s priorities in student success, faculty excellence, research and innovation.

Christina brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education and nonprofit leadership. Prior to joining UCF, she served as Senior Director of Development for Purdue University’s College of Engineering where she worked closely with alumni and philanthropic partners to secure support for scholarships, faculty initiatives, student programs and research. Throughout her career, she has built meaningful relationships with donors, volunteers and campus leaders to help advance institutional priorities and create lasting impact through philanthropy.

Christina earned a Bachelor of Arts in French from Baylor University, a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Indiana University. Her diverse educational and professional background informs her approach to relationship-building, strategic philanthropy and mission-driven leadership.

Christina is passionate about connecting donors with opportunities that advance discovery, expand educational access and create lasting societal impact through teaching, research and innovation.