Shara Freeman Hoefel joined Francis Parker School in San Diego, California, as head of advancement in 2013 and was named assistant head of school for external relations in 2020. She oversees fundraising, parent and alumni relations, communications, marketing, and admissions.

Her career in development started in 2004. She has worked in Boston and New York City for Cornell University, Fordham Law School, and the Chapin School. She has expertise in campaign fundraising, donor engagement, strategic planning and communications, board governance, and development operations. She has spoken at CASE regional and national conferences and has served on two CAIS accreditation teams.

Hoefel received a bachelor's degree in psychology from Cornell University and a master's degree in sport psychology from Ithaca College.