June 30, 2008

IRVINE, Calif. --- Kara Jefferies has been named Assistant Athletic Director of Development at UC Irvine, announced Monday by Athletic Director Mike Izzi.

Jefferies, who begins her new post Tuesday (July 1), has served the past year as Associate Director of Development for Undergraduate Student Support at UCI. In that role she worked with various campus departments on major fund-raising initiatives for the Cross-Cultural Center, Student Clubs and Organizations, the Anteater Recreation Center, International Center, the Center for Educational Partnerships and the Parent & Family Association.

Prior to arriving at UCI, Jefferies worked at UNLV for 4 ½ years, serving as Associate Director of Development for Intercollegiate Athletics as well as Assistant Director of the Rebel Fund.

She earned her bachelor's degree in business administration from California State University, Sacramento, where she was a four-year member of the women's soccer program. Jefferies received her master's degree in sport management from UNLV.

Her professional involvement includes the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA), National Association of Athletic Development Directors (NAADD) and she is a board member of the Irvine Exchange Club.

Jefferies is originally from Anchorage, Alaska.

"Kara has outstanding credentials in fundraising and she will be a key component in our athletic development efforts," Izzi said.