Meet Jackie Cruz, HawkTower’s Newest Advisor — VP of Advancement and Development at Hartnell College and Executive Director of the Hartnell College Foundation
HawkTower, a venture capital firm for underleveraged California, is thrilled to announce that Jackie Cruz, a trusted leader and strategist in community development and education, has agreed to become an advisor
I met Jackie while building local relationships and learning about the connections between innovation and community. Jackie brings experience and expertise from her tenure at Hartnell College and the Hartnell College Foundation to HawkTower, where she has been instrumental in driving educational access and innovation advancements.
A Visionary in Educational Advancement
Jackie’s role at Hartnell has been pivotal in steering the college toward becoming a center of innovation and educational excellence in the Salinas community. Under her guidance, Hartnell has launched a state-of-the-art facility designed to foster cutting-edge learning and prepare students for future technological challenges. This center is a testament to Hartnell’s commitment to keeping pace with rapid technological advancements and ensuring its students are well-prepared for the demands of the modern workforce.
In addition to leadership at Hartnell, Jackie is central to enhancing local community programs through her involvement with organizations like Digital NEST (where she serves as board president) and Rancho Cielo. Digital NEST provides youth with essential skills for career development in tech-driven industries. Rancho Cielo works to transform the lives of at-risk youth, offering them educational and vocational training in a supportive environment.
Jackie and HawkTower
At HawkTower, Jackie’s vast experience, trusted community ties, innovative approach to educational programming, and perspective on next-generation workforce development will be invaluable. I learn from her every time we connect. Her expertise will guide initiatives to expand entrepreneurial opportunities and foster workforce development. We share a long-term vision around opportunities for entrepreneurs and tech workers in Salinas and underleveraged California
Bienvenida, Jackie. Our journey is just beginning, and we look forward to learning from you and achieving great things together.
