The University of Hawaiʻi Foundation announces two new development professionals.
University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu
C. Kent Coarsey is the new director of development and alumni engagement, UH West Oʻahu. In this newly created position, Coarsey will engage UH West Oahu alumni through communication, enhanced networking and giving programs. He will also grow major gift fundraising efforts to support the vision of the chancellor of UH West Oʻahu.
Coarsey grew up in Kailua and graduated from James B. Castle High School. He earned his BA in psychology and BA in art from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, and his masters in nonprofit management from Regis University in Denver, Colorado.
Much of his career has been spent working with Hawaiʻi organizations that serve children and families. This includes serving as president/executive director of The Children’s Alliance of Hawaiʻi, director of philanthropy of the YMCA of Honolulu and executive director of the Hawaiʻi Branch of the International Dyslexia Association. Coarsey was the founder and board president of Family Promise of Hawaiʻi an affiliate of national interfaith networks which provide programs for transitional housing, child care and homelessness prevention.
University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Karla Zarate-Ramirez, is the new executive director of development, UH Mānoa. In this role, Zarate-Ramirez supports Interim Dean Ronald Riggs and Interim Dean Tom Ranker, in expanding fundraising efforts and broadening philanthropic support for the College of Engineering and the College of Natural Sciences.
Before joining the UH Foundation, Zarate-Ramirez spent 17 years with the American Friends Service Committee in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she served in various roles including director of development operations, director of campaign and leadership gifts, and most recently, director of campaign, leadership and planned gifts.
Zarate-Ramirez earned a BA in communications from Hampshire College and an MS in organizational dynamics from the University of Pennsylvania. She also earned her certified fundraising executive credential in 2012. Active in her community, she has served as a board member with groups including the Hampshire College Alumni Board and the Friends Child Care Center.
For more information or details on career opportunities, visit the UH Foundation.
