Kristina Perez, M.Ed., CFRE
Kristina Perez, M.Ed., CFRE is an accomplished fundraising executive and nonprofit leader currently serving as Director of Development at the Houston Community College Foundation in Houston. With a strong focus on institutional advancement, donor relations, and strategic partnerships, she leads initiatives that generate critical resources to support student success and community impact. Known for her relational leadership style, Kristina has built a reputation for aligning philanthropic efforts with educational priorities, particularly in areas such as workforce development, technology, and student support services.
With nearly three decades of experience in education and nonprofit leadership, Kristina’s career began in special education before evolving into large-scale program development and fundraising strategy. She has consistently been recognized for her ability to design, launch, and scale impactful initiatives—from managing community programs to implementing district-wide services that served thousands of students. Her work reflects a deep commitment to expanding access to education and creating sustainable opportunities for underserved populations through innovative partnerships and resource development.
Kristina holds both a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master of Education in Educational Psychology from Texas A&M University, and she is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology at Capella University. In 2025, she earned the prestigious Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential, underscoring her dedication to ethical and effective fundraising practices. Beyond her professional work, she is an active community leader, award-winning professional, and devoted mother of four, balancing a life of service, leadership, and personal passion.
• CFRE Certification
• President's List - Spring 2025
• President's List - Winter 2025
• President's List Summer 2024
• Texas A&M University - M.Ed.
• 2024 Woman of the Year
• Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith, believing that God places me in the roles I am meant to serve. I have also been fortunate to be recognized and entrusted with leadership opportunities. Above all, I maintain a persistent focus on building meaningful relationships and providing service that directly impacts and transforms students’ lives.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received came from a colleague who said, “The five years are going to pass anyway; why wouldn’t you want a PhD at the end of it?” That practical perspective inspired me to pursue a PhD in industrial-organizational psychology.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering this industry to stay committed to their goals, remain resilient through challenges, and focus on making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field right now is the chance to positively change students’ trajectories across Houston by expanding access to education and creating pathways to livable wages. The greatest challenge is meeting the widespread need while developing sustainable revenue and resources to support both students and their families.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are compassion, service, integrity, and impact. I am deeply committed to creating opportunities that change lives and uplift communities.
In my personal life, I enjoy attending community events, exploring new restaurants, reading books on business and psychology, and spending quality time with my family. I also have a strong passion for rescuing animals, particularly cats.