Jasmin Chavez Cruz is a dynamic external affairs leader, coalition-builder, and advocacy strategist dedicated to fostering cross-sector collaboration to drive meaningful change. With experience at the highest levels of government, she has led large-scale initiatives that engage diverse stakeholders, build inclusive talent pipelines, and advance policies that empower communities.
As an Associate Director at the White House, Jasmin oversaw external affairs and stakeholder engagement efforts, ensuring a diverse and impactful pipeline of public servants. She has a strong track record of managing partnerships with government agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy organizations, amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities, and driving policy solutions in education and technology policy.
Previously, Jasmin played a pivotal role at the U.S. Department of Education, where she managed high-profile external engagement initiatives, crafted strategic messaging, and collaborated with senior leaders across federal agencies. Her leadership extends beyond government, having mobilized grassroots organizations as the State Director of Virginia LULAC, executed major coalition-building initiatives, and served as a trusted advisor in public affairs and policy communications.
A sought-after speaker and thought leader, Jasmin has delivered keynote addresses and moderated discussions at national conferences, uplifting the importance of external affairs, equitable policies, and coalition-driven impact. She is passionate about bridging communities and policy and leveraging her expertise to build powerful networks that drive lasting systemic change.
MORE ABOUT JASMIN’S PERSONAL STORY
Born in El Salvador and raised in Falls Church, Virginia, Jasmin grew up in a low-income, predominantly immigrant community. At the age of 14, she began organizing her community, a passion that has driven her ever since. Throughout her career, Jasmin has been committed to empowering immigrant and low-income communities, building Latino political power, and advocating for issues vital to the Latino community.
Jasmin has made significant contributions to her community in Virginia, notably serving as the State Director for the Virginia League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) from 2020 to 2023. She has also worked as the Latino Outreach & Political Director for Victoria Virasingh’s congressional campaign in 2022 and chaired the Virginia Todos Con Biden Youth Committee in 2020.
Jasmin holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Spanish from McDaniel College. She aspires to establish a foundation in Virginia that supports low-income immigrants and has plans to run for elected office in the future.
AWARDS
2024
Leadership Center for Excellence’s Northern Virginia 40 Under 40 Award
2023
Hispanic Executive 30 Under 30 Award
Young Alumni Award from the McDaniel College Alumni Association
2018
LULAC National Woman of the Year Award
LULAC National Community Service Project of the Year Award
2015