President & CEO: Laura Ospina-Knight
Since joining UWPC in 2019, Laura Ospina-Knight has been instrumental in advancing the organization’s mission. She began as Campaign Manager & Senior Associate, later transitioning to Director of Development, serving as Vice President, and finally gaining the role of President & CEO. In each role, she has driven expansion, cultivated vital partnerships, and spearheaded transformative initiatives that have directly benefited Pasco County residents. Her leadership has been pivotal in launching key programs such as the Fighting Human Trafficking Program, Homeless Prevention Program, and the COVID-19 relief response, which allocated $2.4 million to support struggling businesses and residents. Most recently, she played a crucial role in developing UWPC’s Hurricane Relief Initiative.
Beyond program development, Ospina-Knight has demonstrated exceptional leadership in fundraising and community engagement, such as introducing the annual Pull for Pasco Clay Shoot. She is a passionate advocate for survivors of human trafficking, working closely with local, state, and federal legislators to influence policy and secure essential resources. She has also strengthened relationships with the Pasco Board of County Commissioners and collaborated with Pasco County Health and Human Services to enhance support for lower income families and homeless populations. Transparency and community involvement remain at the core of her leadership, ensuring that stakeholders are informed about funding allocation and program updates.
Before her tenure at UWPC, Ospina-Knight served as Marketing Coordinator for Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, and as Assistant Director of Marketing and Business Development for Simon Property Group. She holds degrees in Marketing and Operations Management from Florida Gulf Coast University and is currently pursuing her Master of Business Administration.
She actively serves on the boards of Leadership Pasco, the Rotary Club of New Port Richey, and Vincent House Pasco.
laurak@unitedwaypasco.org