Alumni Profile: Crystal DaCruz '98

Q+A with Crystal DaCruz '98

Crystal DaCruz attended GUS for grades four through eight, graduating in 1998. She went on to graduate from the University of Rhode Island in 2009 with a degree in Textiles, Fashion Merchandising, and Design. She currently lives in Providence, RI, with her son Shane and daughter Simone, where she recently founded a startup - Boxed in Black.

What was one of your most meaningful or memorable GUS experiences?

Our 8th grade class trip to New York City. My favorite part of that trip was visiting MOMA and Bloomingdales.

Where are you now, and what are you doing?

I am launching my start-up company, Boxed in Black, which is a gifting service that curates premium items from BIPOC brands and donates a portion of sales to emerging entrepreneurs of color.

In what ways do you feel GUS prepared you for what you're doing now?

I am so grateful for having the opportunity to go to GUS during my formative years. The commitment to diversity and inclusion at this school really gave me a sense of belonging and instilled so much confidence in me that I still carry to this day.

Any words of advice for current GUS students?

Regardless of what room you are in, know that you belong! Take the values that you learn from this school into the world and you will do amazing things. Also, cherish your time at GUS because it will go fast! It is truly a unique and special place.