Maria Cruz
Dr. Maria W. Cruz is a lifelong advocate for children and families. Dr. Cruz holds degrees from Springfield College (B.S.), Springfield College School of Social Work (M.S.W) and Capella University (Ed.D). She also holds two Post Master’s Certificates in Educational Leadership and Management and Leadership and Accountability.
In 2009, Dr. Cruz was appointed as a member of the Board of Education and was re-elected twice through 2015. In 2023, she retired after 30 years of state service to become Manchester’s first female and first woman of color to serve as their Town Clerk, following the untimely passing of the late Darryl Thames, Sr. In 2025, during her election run for the Town Clerk's seat, she became the first candidate in the history of the Town of Manchester to gain the highest votes.
Dr. Cruz is a longtime advocate for cultural unity and community empowerment. As Founder and CEO of the Manchester Latino Affairs Council (MLAC) a nonprofit organization, she leads initiatives that elevate Latino voices, strengthen civic engagement, and build bridges across Manchester’s diverse communities.
She is the drive in creating MLAC’s first ever Raíces y Futuro Scholarship, to provide postsecondary access to a Latino student in Manchester Public Schools who would otherwise lack the financial means to pursue their educational goals. Its purpose is clear: award a high need Latino student a pathway to a high-quality degree or credential. MLAC also serves as a community resource for the Gentle Love Diaper Pantry, helping families meet essential needs for their children. In addition, MLAC is launching Casa y Comunidad, a housing initiative on September 1, 2026, designed to strengthen housing stability and support families across Manchester.
Dr. Cruz further builds cultural pride and connection through the Multicultural Hispanic Pageant, Mr. and Miss Folklore USA, the Manchester Hispanic Heritage Celebration, and the Three Kings Celebration events that bring families together and celebrate the richness of Latino culture.
Dr. Cruz continues to champion transparency, professionalism, and collaboration ensuring every voice in Manchester is seen, valued, and heard.
