Christie Vera

Her colleagues know Christie Vera as the go-to person for restaurant and recipe recommendations, but she is way more valuable to the Hopkins community than a delicious meal. As the Senior Associate Director of Development and Alumni Relations for the Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Christie raises funds for the department’s physicians and scientists, helping them pursue cutting-edge research and the best possible patient care. 

Christie learned to lend a helping hand at a young age. Her parents instilled a practice of volunteering in Christie as they raised her in Caracas, Venezuela. She brought that generous attitude with her as she moved back to Baltimore to be closer to her family. When she is not at work, she helps with Habitat for Humanity, advocates for the environment, promote pet adoption, and assists colleagues with Spanish translation. This year, Christie was also a co-chair for DAR’s annual talent conference. 

What brought you to DAR?  

Some of my local connections led me to [Senior Associate Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations] Boi Carpenter and then [Senior Director of Development at Johns Hopkins University] Amy Helsel. Amy called and asked, “How would you like to raise money for radiology?”  

How did you get into the development and alumni relations field?  

My parents were lay missioners for a Catholic organization while I was growing up in South America. My father ended his career as a major gift officer. I’ve always been a volunteer in some capacity, it is in my blood. I worked in the non-profit world as an extension of who I am throughout my life. I traveled with Habitat for Humanity to Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil before I got married and had kids.   

What accomplishment are you most proud of (work and/or personal)? 

It is tremendously rewarding to see the long-standing relationships we build with donors provide support to the Department. Our connections with donors result in major gifts, including professorships in honor of significant leaders in the radiology community.   

What do you like most about your job?   

It is important to me to be in an environment that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a working mom, I love working within a culture that encourages a healthy work-life balance by supporting me both professionally and personally. 

Have you earned a degree/certification while working at DAR?  

Yes, I earned a certification in Communications from the Carey Business School in 2019.   

What do you like to do when you are not working (hobbies, activities, etc.)?  

I enjoy walking my dogs, cooking, playing sports with my kids, volunteering at their school, and spending time with family.   

Please share something others may not know about you (a hidden talent, a unique accomplishment, etc.). 

I’m fluent in Spanish, I love to cook, and I’m a strong advocate for our environment and pet adoption. #Lovemotherearth #Adoptdontshop.