Jacki Cruz is now vice president of advancement and development at Hartnell College

Jackie Cruz, who began working at Hartnell College in 2009 as director of development, has been promoted to vice president of advancement.

“Ms. Cruz's promotion ... is in recognition of her outstanding leadership for the Hartnell College Foundation and her outstanding contributions to innovation through her work in college advancement," said Superintendent Willard Lewallen in a statement. "She has emerged as one of the finest leaders in these areas and is known throughout the state for her creativity, collaboration, and achievements."

Cruz is credited launching a number of programs, including the Salinas Valley Health Professions Pathways Partnership, and two capital campaigns, one for the arts and one for athletics. Under her leadership the college has expanded the Agriculture Institute and worked to increase support for innovation through agriculture and STEM.

Cruz began her career in the non-profit sector 19 years ago at the United Way Monterey County. She was born in Watsonville, and raised in Salinas where she has lived all her life. She serves on the Board of Directors for the YMCA Salinas, Sun Street Centers, Youth Orchestra Salinas, Salinas City Elementary School District Foundation and the California International Airshow. She volunteers for The California Endowment Building Healthy Communities. The Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce named her the 2009 Citizen of the Year making her the youngest recipient of this award.

Congratulations, Jackie! You're a hard worker and caring community member who deserves this recognition and more!