Christina Kafkakis (she/her/hers) is a first-generation college graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Food Technology and Management from Michigan State University (Go Green!). Her professional experience includes roles in food processing, food safety, biotech technical support, sales and marketing, and academia. Previously, she held a term-limited appointment at the University of Michigan College of Pharmacy. She is also a professional photographer and small business owner specializing in portrait photography.
Advocacy and Lived Experience
When her oldest son was diagnosed with autism at the age of three, Christina embarked on a new path of advocacy. Since then, she has been actively involved in local parenting networks and community groups for neurodivergent individuals and people with disabilities.
When her youngest son was diagnosed with ADHD, she decided to pursue her own evaluation. At the age of 45, she received a formal diagnosis of ADHD. This diagnosis helped her understand the challenges she had faced growing up and explained experiences that affected her differently than others. It felt like she had finally found a missing piece of the puzzle.
University of Michigan Roles
Christina has supported Dr. Charles L. Brooks III and the Brooks Research Group in LSA Chemistry part-time since 2025. Additionally, she serves as the part-time TRAIN Program Coordinator in collaboration with the U-M Center for RNA Biomedicine.
Community Leadership and Volunteer Service
Throughout her life, Christina has been a dedicated volunteer and community advocate, taking on leadership roles with several non-profit organizations. While raising four children, Christina immersed herself in service positions in their school district and community. She has served as a board member for the Brighton Orchestra Boosters, Maltby PTO, Livingston County Spartans, and LAPOM.
Christina’s volunteer efforts extend to the Brighton Choir Boosters, Brighton Musical Theater, and coaching for Brighton Science Olympiad. She has also lent her skills as a photographer for Hilton Musical Theater, Scranton Musical Theater, Flashes of Hope, Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, and Brighton Living Magazine. She has served as President of the Brighton Optimist Club since 2025.
Beyond Work
She enjoys cooking, reading or listening to audiobooks, gardening, playing golf, and having family game nights. She and her husband live in Brighton with their children, two dogs, and a cat.
Administrative Assistant
Brooks Research Group, LSA Chemistry, University of Michigan
Program Coordinator
TRAIN Program, U-M Center for RNA Biomedicine