David Carrera

David Carrera, originally from Heidelberg, Germany, has established himself as a figure of immense dedication and professional excellence in advancement and sales, now residing in Santa Barbara, California. His career trajectory is a testament to unwavering perseverance and a deep commitment to professional integrity, impacting every institution he has worked with.


His entry into the professional world was built on a solid academic foundation, having obtained a B.A. in Marketing from Loyola University, Maryland. He was on the verge of completing an MBA in Finance at the same institution, but his commitment to family took precedence. He chose to suspend his graduate studies to care for his second child, a decision made amidst a demanding daily commute between Baltimore and Washington, DC. This choice underscores his resilience and dedication, qualities that have been fundamental to his professional life.


He has been instrumental in leading significant fundraising campaigns in his career, characterized by his unwavering commitment to integrity. At American University, he was crucial in initiating a $200M fundraising campaign, successfully raising an initial $120M. His strategic capabilities were highlighted at Johns Hopkins Medicine, where he contributed significantly to a $2.4 billion fundraising campaign, a significant component of Johns Hopkins University's $4.5 billion goal. Subsequently, his expertise was recognized at the University of Southern California, where he led a $2 billion campaign for USC Keck Medicine, part of a more significant $6 billion fundraising effort. Throughout David Carrera California’s career, he has maintained the highest standards of professionalism, adeptly managing complex responsibilities with skill and integrity.


Family is at the core of his life. Married to Jacqueline Carrera for 35 years, they have raised three children, creating a nurturing and close-knit family environment. Their strong family bond is evident in their shared activities, including vacations, holiday gatherings, and a shared love for sports and music events. He maintains a close relationship with his children and is looking forward to the arrival of his first grandchild in March 2024.


Carrera also has a profound passion for the outdoors, balancing his professional life with various hobbies. These include fly fishing, camping, hiking, cycling, mountain biking, and motorcycle riding. An avid skier, he also enjoys live music and is a fan of sports teams like the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens. His affection for The Grateful Dead epitomizes his philosophy of embracing life's varied pleasures striving for a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.


His commitment to philanthropy is noteworthy. He and his family have supported various causes, including education, social justice, environmental, and humanitarian initiatives. He serves on the boards of several non-profit organizations and has been involved in coaching local soccer clubs. This dedication to philanthropy and teaching indicates his commitment to making a positive impact beyond his professional endeavors.


David Carrera USC's story is one of unwavering dedication and commitment. His contributions to fundraising and sales, extensive community service, and a fulfilling personal life illustrate a life of perseverance, integrity, and dedication.