DEIRDRE CRUZ, PH.D.

Program Manager

​​As a Program Manager at Literacy Trust, Dr. Deirdre Cruz combines her passion for early literacy learning with supporting educators. This passion for early literacy learning came from Dr. Cruz’s time working in Title I schools within the city of New York. She then channeled her desire to see equity in education by studying Literacy in infancy as part of her doctoral journey. Dr. Cruz’s mentors inspired her to pursue a career where she can help and support fellow educators. Dr. Cruz believes in the Literacy Trust mission to support educators that help students gain academic achievement through early intervention reading support.

Dr. Cruz has experience teaching grades Kindergarten through college in public and private settings within the five boroughs of New York City. Dr. Cruz received her Bachelor’s in English from the University of Connecticut, her Master’s degree in Childhood Education from St. John’s University, and her Ph.D. in Literacy from St. John’s University.

Dr. Cruz loves spending time with her family and friends. Dr. Cruz enjoys reading, yoga, HIIT, and visiting with family and friends near and far.