About me
Axel Cruz (he, she, they) is the Manager of Arts Education at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C., where he leads the design and implementation of nationally recognized programs that integrate the arts, literacy, and civic learning. His work focuses on equipping educators and students with tools to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage meaningfully with history and contemporary issues. Axel specializes in curriculum development, professional learning, and program strategy, with a focus on scalable, student-centered practices that elevate voice and foster collaboration. Through initiatives such as the National Oratory Fellows program and teacher professional development workshops, he works at the intersection of arts integration and instructional innovation. Prior to his work at Ford’s Theatre, Axel was a classroom teacher, an experience that continues to shape his approach to student-centered learning and educator support. As a theatre artist and designer, Axel brings a creative lens to his work in education, grounding his approach in the belief that storytelling is a powerful vehicle for learning, identity development, and systemic change.
