Marcela DeFaria is the Director of Advancement for UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management, where she oversees the college’s philanthropy and strengthens partnerships with external constituents.

Previously, Marcela served in various advancement roles at The University of Texas at Austin, including as Director of Development for Major Gifts in the College of Fine Arts, Associate Director of Development for Corporate and Foundation Relations at the Jackson School of Geosciences, and overseeing annual giving and stewardship for the Cockrell School of Engineering.

Marcela holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music performance and history from the University of Florida and The Ohio State University. She is an avid flutist and a staunch advocate for higher education. When she is not advising donors and deepening campus connections with alumni and community partners, Marcela can be found enjoying outdoor activities and going to theme parks, beaches, and cultural arts events with her family and two cocker spaniels.