Christina Vela is a mission-driven nonprofit executive and selfdescribed “Hustler for Hope” with more than two decades of leadership advancing equity and transformative care for vulnerable children and families. As CEO of St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, she leads trauma-informed programs serving youth impacted by abuse, neglect, homelessness, and human trafficking, while strengthening systems for operational excellence, fundraising, and community engagement. Her career includes senior leadership roles at the local, state, and federal levels within child welfare and policy systems, including coordination of Nevada’s efforts to prevent the commercial sexual exploitation of children. Dr. Vela holds a Doctorate in Public Policy and a Master’s in Public Administration from UNLV and serves as a National Board Member of the Family Focused Treatment Association. She is widely recognized for her humanitarian leadership and belief that meaningful change is driven by courage, care, and accountability.

Dr. Christina Vela

Trauma Services & At-risk Youth

Philanthropic Advisory Council (PAC)

Dr. Christina Vela

Christina Vela is a mission-driven nonprofit executive and selfdescribed “Hustler for Hope” with more than two decades of leadership advancing equity and transformative care for vulnerable children and families. As CEO of St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, she leads trauma-informed programs serving youth impacted by abuse, neglect, homelessness, and human trafficking, while strengthening systems for operational excellence, fundraising, and community engagement. Her career includes senior leadership roles at the local, state, and federal levels within child welfare and policy systems, including coordination of Nevada’s efforts to prevent the commercial sexual exploitation of children. Dr. Vela holds a Doctorate in Public Policy and a Master’s in Public Administration from UNLV and serves as a National Board Member of the Family Focused Treatment Association. She is widely recognized for her humanitarian leadership and belief that meaningful change is driven by courage, care, and accountability.