Jaritza Cazares Cruz

Developed critical thinking and collaboration skills in a fast-paced academic environment. Seeking to transition into new field, leveraging strengths in research and project management. Prepared to contribute to team-oriented setting with focus on continuous improvement and innovation.

Latina Empowerment and Development Conference Ambassador 

Harvard University • October 2024 – February 2026

Team Lead

• Recruited and fundraised for attendees through outreach efforts, including emails, flyering, and engaging with student organizations.
• Coordinated recruitment efforts and maintained weekly progress reports.
• Participated in weekly leadership meetings, interactive training, and diversity-focused activities to foster an inclusive and supportive community.
• Gained experience in fundraising, event promotion, and community engagement.

Honors Student Recruitment Team

SDSU Honors College • February 2023 – Present

Recruiter

• Aided in tours and admissions events for incoming freshmen interested in the Honors College.

MLK Rally & Marade Emcee

SDSU – February 2026

• Delivered a self-written three-minute welcome speech and introducing every speaker throughout the event.
• Facilitated program flow, engaged the audience, and helped create an inspiring and inclusive environment that honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy.

Latin American Student Association Executive Board 

SDSU • September 2023 – Present

Secretary → Vice President → President

• Organized cultural events and outreach efforts for the Latine community.
• Coordinated translation services for Spanish-speaking community members.

Honors College Student Organization Executive Board 

SDSU • September 2022 – April 2025

First-Year Rep. → Vice President → President

• Managed event logistics, delegation, and communications.

Excellence in Leadership Award

2024 SDSU Honors College

Community Builder Award

2025 SDSU Honors College

Latina Empowerment and Development Conference

2025, 2026 Ambassador & Attendee 

• Recruited and fundraised for SDSU students to attend the conference.
• Participated in workshops, keynote sessions, and networking opportunities focused on leadership development, personal growth, and professional skill-building.
• Supported peers in maximizing the conference experience and fostering a collaborative, empowering environment.

Augustana University Diversity Summit

2025 Attendee

• Participated in diversity, equity, and inclusion workshops focused on higher education environments.

Upper Midwest Honors Conference (UMHC)

2024, 2025 Attendee & Presenter

• Presented melanoma cancer research from work in Dr. Halaweish’s lab.
• Shared presentations on the development and impact of the Honors College Student Organization (HCSO).
• Discussed personal insights on the LEAD Conference experience and its benefits for student leaders and attendees.

National Collegiate Honors Council (NCHC)

2024 Attendee & Presenter

• Co-presented with SDSU Honors College on the benefits and structure of a student-led honors organization.

South Dakota EPSCoR Undergraduate Research Symposium

2023 Attendee & Presenter

• Presented original research on estrone analogs as B-Raf inhibitors in melanoma treatment.

CORE Concepts in Telehealth Certificate

American Heart Association – October 2023