Her Story
About Crystal
I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, a place that has always felt like home and continues to shape who I am. I still live here with my husband and our 14-year-old daughter, Sophia, who is my greatest teacher, inspiration, and reminder of what truly matters. Motherhood has grounded me in ways I never expected, teaching me patience, perspective, and the power of unconditional love.
I attended The University of Texas at Austin, where I earned my B.A. in Psychology—an experience that deepened my understanding of people and strengthened my sense of community, pride, and tradition. Hook ’em Horns will always be part of my heart. Sports bring me joy and connection, whether it’s cheering on the Longhorns, following college football, or watching soccer—especially as we look ahead to the World Cup coming to the U.S. in 2026.
My story is deeply influenced by my family and heritage. My father was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and my mother in New Orleans—two cultures rich in history, rhythm, and soul. That blend has shaped my love for music, movement, and togetherness. I cherish staying connected to my Latin roots through salsa dancing and through my husband, who is Puerto Rican. Music and dance are more than hobbies for me; they are expressions of joy, identity, and connection. I also love country music, two-stepping, and live concerts, where I feel most present and alive.
My faith and spirituality are central to my life. I am actively involved in my church and find purpose in service—whether volunteering through Feed the City, supporting church initiatives, or helping others in meaningful ways. Giving back keeps me grounded and reminds me that impact is often created through small, consistent acts of love and kindness.
At my core, I am someone who values family, faith, culture, and community. I am intentional about how I live and how I show up for others. The legacy I hope to leave—especially for my daughter—is one rooted in integrity, compassion, and courage. I want to be remembered not only for what I accomplished, but for how I loved, how I served, and how I helped others feel seen, supported, and empowered to become their fullest selves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Crystal
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience and my ability to adapt. Being laid off six times throughout my career taught me how to stay grounded during uncertainty and prepared to pivot when circumstances change. Those experiences reshaped my definition of stability and helped me build confidence in myself rather than in any single role or organization.
I continue to find success because I have been intentional about remaining marketable. I am strategic about the positions I accept and the companies I choose to work for, ensuring that each step strengthens my skills, expands my perspective, and prepares me for what’s next. Instead of fearing change, I have learned to view it as an opportunity for growth, reinvention, and alignment.
Resilience, for me, is not just about enduring challenges—it is about evolving through them with clarity, courage, and purpose.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was to never tie my identity or self-worth to a title, company, or season of success, and to remember that no one is above being human. I was also reminded early on not to treat executives like celebrities—they are simply people with different roles, not greater value. That perspective changed how I show up: it allowed me to communicate with confidence, build genuine relationships across all levels, and advocate for myself without intimidation. By focusing on my skills, integrity, and adaptability instead of hierarchy or status, I’ve been able to lead with clarity, stay grounded through change, and navigate my career with far more purpose and resilience.
When I stop measuring myself by titles, faith brings me back to the truth of who I was created to be.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the tech HR industry is to invest in yourself as intentionally as you invest in the people you support. Learn the business, understand the technology, and build skills that travel with you—because the industry moves fast, and change is inevitable. Be curious, stay adaptable, and don’t be afraid to pivot when a role or company no longer aligns with your growth.
Build relationships with integrity, not hierarchy. Don’t be intimidated by titles or proximity to power—executives are people, not celebrities. Your voice matters, and confidence comes from preparation, self-awareness, and knowing your value. Advocate for yourself early, ask questions often, and trust that you deserve to take up space at the table.
Most importantly, protect your sense of self. Tech can be demanding, and HR work is deeply emotional. Stay grounded in your values, your faith, and your community. Success is not just about advancement—it’s about longevity, alignment, and becoming a woman who leads with clarity, compassion, and courage.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in Tech HR today is navigating constant change—shifting business priorities, economic cycles, and rapidly evolving technology. HR professionals are expected to adapt quickly while still advocating for people, culture, and long-term impact. This requires continuous learning, especially around data, AI, and workforce strategy, without losing the human connection that defines our work.
At the same time, this moment presents a powerful opportunity. Human-centered leadership is becoming a true differentiator, and technology—when used thoughtfully—can elevate HR from transactional work to strategic influence. There is also an opportunity to shape more equitable, inclusive workplaces and ensure that people practices keep pace with innovation. The future of Tech HR belongs to those who can balance agility with empathy and lead through change with clarity and purpose.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me—both in my work and personal life—are integrity, faith, resilience, and connection. Integrity guides how I show up and make decisions; I believe in doing the right thing even when it’s difficult or unseen. Faith grounds me and gives me perspective, reminding me to lead with humility, gratitude, and purpose rather than ego or fear.
Resilience has been shaped through experience and change, teaching me to remain adaptable and steady through uncertainty. It allows me to face challenges with clarity while staying open to growth and reinvention. Connection is equally important to me—I value relationships, community, and creating spaces where people feel seen, respected, and supported.
Together, these values influence how I live, work, and serve others. They guide my choices, shape my leadership, and define the legacy I hope to leave—one rooted in authenticity, compassion, and impact.
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