Kara Barber is an enterprising and collaborative advocate for advancing the success of the North Florida economy. She currently serves as the Assistant Director for UNF’s Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation running day-to-day operations and programming. Prior to UNF, Kara was in development for the North Florida American Diabetes Association where she worked with local Jacksonville business leaders to raise close to half a million dollars for research, education, and programs. She also previously worked at the Florida State Golf Association where she grew membership by recruiting over 500 new golfers. In addition to her non-profit work, Kara also ran Orientation and the Student Solutions Center at Jacksonville University. Under her leadership, she was able to increase student success and persistence towards graduation, specifically with second-year students.