Cris Solis Wilson

Cristina “Cris” Solis Wilson is a purpose-driven leader whose career bridges military service, executive leadership, and community impact. A decorated combat veteran, Cris served more than 25 years in the U.S. Army, leading at the brigade level and deploying six times in service to the nation. Her military career, combined with her work as a Federal Investigator, shaped her deep expertise in leadership, resilience, operational excellence, and strategic decision-making under pressure. Grounded in discipline and service, she brings a values-based approach to every role she undertakes.

Today, Cris is the CEO of CM Institute of Leadership and Co-Founder and Executive Director of Crossroads Academy, Inc., where she focuses on empowering leaders, organizations, and underserved youth to unlock their full potential. As a leadership and business coach, keynote speaker, and strategist, she has worked with executives, entrepreneurs, and teams to strengthen culture, align strategy, and drive sustainable growth. Her global impact includes training over 20,000 leaders through the John Maxwell Transformation Paraguay Project, reinforcing her commitment to developing ethical, purpose-centered leadership.

An international award-winning author, advocate for veterans and youth, and lifelong mentor, Cris believes excellence is a journey—not a destination. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, is a John Maxwell Certified Coach, a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, and a graduate of Yale School of Management’s Women’s Leadership Program. Above all, she is a wife and mother who leads with integrity, compassion, and an unwavering belief in creating pathways for others to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact.

• Women's Leadership Program
• Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA) Certificate Phase 1
• Defense Support of Civil Authorities Course (DSCA) Certificate -Phase 2
• Operational Contract Support Course
• Leadership McAllen Graduate - Class 35
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification
• RC Unit Mobilization Planner Course
• Professional Trainer and Coach
• Unit Movement Officer Deployment Planning Course

• Yale School of Management
• The NCO Leadership Center of Excellence and Sergeants Major Academy
• South Texas College- A.A.
• South Texas College- A.S.
• The University of Texas-Pan American- B.S.

• 2024 International Impact Book Award
• 2024 Latina of Influence
• 2023 Women of Influence
• 2023 Chapter of Year Award
• 2022 Estrella de Tejas Award
• 2022 Hispanic Women Making History Award
• 2017 Women of Distinction Award
• Afghanistan Campaign Medal
• Armed Forces Reserve Medal
• Army Achievement Medal
• Army Commendation Medal
• Army Good Conduct Medal
• Army Service Ribbon
• Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal
• Defense Meritorious Service Medal
• Iraq Campaign Medal

• Hispanic Women's Network of Texas - RGV Chapter
• Angels of Love RGV
• Disability Chamber of Commerce-RGV
• Organization of Women Executives
• RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
• National Hispanic Professional Organization
• RGV Veterans War Memorial
• Boys Scouts of America Arrowhead Council