Christine Cruzvergara, Chief Education Strategy Officer at Handshake, leads with a core belief that title means little without accountability, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to real impact. Known for steering Handshake’s education strategy and student success initiatives, Cruzvergara plays a key role in expanding access to meaningful careers for over 15 million students and alumni across more than 1,500 educational institutions. Her leadership is anchored in service, and she’s clear about what that demands: “Leadership is not a title, it's an action.” That clarity has made her a widely respected voice in higher education and career development.
Born in Virginia, Cruzvergara earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and family studies from James Madison University. As a first-generation college student, her own experience navigating the education system became a driving force in her professional path. Prior to Handshake, she held senior roles at Wellesley College, Georgetown University, George Washington University, and George Mason University. At Wellesley, she was recognized with both the EDUventures Innovation Award and the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Excellence Award. At Handshake, she focuses on shaping strategies that help students not only launch their careers, but feel seen and supported along the way.
Cruzvergara’s career has not been without challenges. Rising through the ranks as a young woman of color in leadership, she often felt the weight of needing to prove herself in rooms where she stood out. Still, she remained grounded in her mission: “I want to make a difference in the life of at least one person.”