Graciela Noriega Jacoby serves as the Chief Operating Officer for Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW), Central Florida’s largest supporter of health and human service agencies. In her role, she oversees program administration, communications, public relations, and advocacy efforts, working with community partners, donors, and key stakeholders to create lasting impact for individuals and families.
With a rich career in public service, Graciela previously served as Chief of Staff to Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs, where she led major initiatives and managed executive operations. She is a passionate advocate for community development, demonstrated through her volunteer leadership in organizations such as the Florida Policy Institute, East Orlando Chamber of Commerce, and the Ginsburg Institute for Health Equity.
A Sarasota native, Graciela holds a BA in Political Science and an MPA with a certificate in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Central Florida. Her contributions to Central Florida have earned her several accolades, including the Orlando Business Journal Women Who Mean Business Award (2024) and the Don Quijote Excellence Award (2020).