Cristina Ruggiero

I am a growth-oriented leader passionate about helping people, organizations, and communities to grow and thrive. For over 15 years, I have led, mentored, and volunteered with nonprofit organizations in education, human services, and advocacy. Prior to joining DRF, I was the director of behavioral health innovation and learning at a nonprofit dedicated to supporting mental health providers and those in recovery.

At the National Council of Jewish Women-Pittsburgh, I led an organization focused on social justice and safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. I also held leadership roles in higher education at the University of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania and Chabot College in California. With a bachelor’s degree from Wesleyan University, and a MA and Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and as a first-generation American and college student, educational access is a personal passion of mine. I have volunteered with organizations helping students from low resource backgrounds achieve their educational goals. I also enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, cooking, and creating glass art in my kiln.

Book recommendation: White Teeth by Zadie Smith