September 16, 2025 - Announcing Our New Vice President for University Advancement and CEO of the University Foundation

Dear Colleagues, 

I am delighted to share that after a nationwide search, Kristine Mazzei has agreed to serve as Chico State’s next Vice President for University Advancement and Chief Executive Officer of the University Foundation. Kristine will begin her appointment on October 27.  

Kristine brings more than two decades of experience in higher education and nonprofit advancement, with a proven track record of building strong teams, securing transformational contributions, and leading successful fundraising campaigns. Most recently, she served as Vice President for Central Development at the University of New Mexico Foundation in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she guided fundraising teams that achieved record-setting growth in planned giving, corporate and foundation support, and athletics funding. 

Kristine is no stranger to Chico State. From 2014 to 2018, she advanced through leadership roles in University Development here, ultimately serving as executive director. During that time, she helped position our first comprehensive campaign, Transform Tomorrow, for a successful launch, secured lead gifts, and introduced innovative donor engagement strategies such as Giving Day. Her return to Chico State is both a homecoming and an exciting new chapter. 

Kristine will oversee our comprehensive advancement efforts — including fundraising, alumni and public engagement, marketing and communications, and the stewardship of the University Foundation. In this role, she will partner with me and leaders across campus to elevate Chico State’s visibility, deepen alumni and donor engagement, and lead our most ambitious campaign yet, Decide the Future. 

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the search committee for their thoughtful and dedicated work throughout this process. Their efforts ensured that we attracted outstanding candidates and ultimately selected a leader who is exceptionally well-prepared to guide University Advancement into the future. 

Kristine’s leadership, vision, and deep connection to Chico State will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our culture of philanthropy and secure the resources that empower student success, faculty excellence, and community impact. Please join me in welcoming Kristine back to Chico State and congratulating her on this important appointment. 

Thank you, 
Steve Perez