Crystal Jaco (she/her)
is Rise’s National Operations Associate. With over 15 years of experience in project management, operations, and nonprofits, Crystal brings a wealth of expertise and specializes in process improvement and grant support services.
Crystal is a first-generation Hispanic college graduate. She obtained her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas in San Antonio in 2007, where she majored in criminal justice. She later obtained her Master of Science in Justice Policy and Organizational Management from The University of Texas at San Antonio in 2013. Driven by her passion for creating positive change, Crystal’s dedication to Rise’s mission is rooted in her commitment to equity, education, and empowering others to build brighter futures. Crystal uses her experience and skills to support impactful missions and contribute towards empowering positive change. Outside of work, Crystal enjoys volunteering in her community and has a blog dedicated to highlighting the struggles of balancing motherhood and self-care. Crystal also enjoys spending time with her husband, four children, and two grandchildren in her free time. Her favorite things include country dancing, Elvis Presley, and advocating for under-represented populations.
