Christina Valdes supports the senior director of grant management and business operations in the oversight and management of NIET's sponsored projects as well as NIET's grant management practices, policies, and procedures. As federal award senior manager, Christina contributes to the day-to-day operations and administration including writing and submitting proposals and identifying funding opportunities. She also reviews expenses and prepares progress and financial tracking reports.

Prior to joining NIET, Christina served eight years in higher education working as an administrator and later becoming an admissions counselor. During that time, she established essential leadership skills and developed skills in critical thinking, counseling, organization, customer service, and management responsibilities. Her education, in addition to hands-on work experience with students, has confirmed her commitment to helping students make the most of their educational experience.

Christina earned a Bachelor of Science in biology, with a minor in psychology, from Nova Southeastern University, and a master's degree in educational leadership from Florida Atlantic University. A lifelong learner, Christina has a passion for learning how to better serve teachers and students in this ever-changing field of education.