Julien Serrano-O’Neil, ACNP
Chief Relationship Officer/First Vice President & Chief of Staff
Global Engagement & Empowerment Center (GEEC)
Julien Serrano-O’Neil is a dedicated nonprofit executive, strategist, and community advocate with a decade of experience in nonprofit management, philanthropy, and public service. As the Chief Relationship Officer (CRO)/First Vice President & Chief of Staff of the United Foundation of Central Florida, Inc. (UFCF), he leads the organization's external engagement, strategic partnerships, and philanthropic initiatives. In this role, Julien has overseen the organization’s largest restructuring, resulting in a 200% increase in the operational budget and a 30% rise in donor contributions. His leadership was also instrumental in securing a $419,773 donation from LYNX, a pivotal achievement for UFCF.
A respected leader in the Central Florida community, Julien has played a key role in raising over $350,000 in educational scholarships, ensuring that 300+ students have successfully graduated and transitioned to higher education, the workforce, or military service. His work has contributed to UFCF's total economic impact of $36 million, providing resources such as food assistance, workforce development, and mentorship programs to underserved communities.
Beyond his work at UFCF, Julien serves as the Lead Director of the Global Engagement & Empowerment Center (GEEC), where he focuses on amplifying civic engagement, global partnerships, and social impact initiatives. His efforts in community development have led to the establishment of $20 million in new funding for Children and Families Services through the formation of Empowerment (Opportunity) Zones.
A Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) and Advanced Certified Nonprofit Professional (ACNP), Julien is pursuing dual Master’s degrees in Nonprofit Management and Public Administration at the University of Central Florida. Julien holds a graduate certificate in Nonprofit Management. A Morehouse College alumnus, he has a background in political science and public policy and is a proud Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Julien is also a thought leader in the nonprofit sector, having authored the "EmpowerED" series, a comprehensive guide on nonprofit excellence and community impact. This series serves as a vital resource for nonprofit leaders, providing practical insights on governance, fundraising, strategic planning, and community impact, equipping organizations with the tools needed to drive meaningful and sustainable change.
His dedication to service extends into his fraternity and alumni communities, where he is actively involved in Morehouse College’s Greater Orlando Alumni Chapter (GOMAC) of the Morehouse College National Alumni Association (MCNAA), leading membership drives, scholarship fundraisers, and alumni engagement initiatives. As a committed advocate for higher education and alumni relations, he works to strengthen connections between Morehouse alumni and the broader community. His vision for leadership and community empowerment continues to drive transformative change across nonprofit, education, and philanthropic sectors.
Recognized as a 2022 Orlando Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree, Julien has a proven track record of collaborating with community and neighborhood organizations, the County Commission, and the School Board to enhance services for at-risk and underserved populations. Through initiatives like the UFCF Senior Computer Program and college access programs, Julien’s work has empowered hundreds of young people to pursue academic and career success.
A tireless advocate for education, equity, and community advancement, Julien remains committed to creating lasting, positive change and advancing opportunities for the next generation of leaders.