Christina Ruiz Pastras
Updated: Jul 20, 2022
Associate Director—DEAEF Youth Dance Program
National Youth Program Consultant
Regional Manager for NJ, LA, MO, KS and PA
Christina Ruiz Pastras was born in Philadelphia. She had a wonderful professional ballet and dance career working with Atlanta Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, Gainesville Ballet and Marc Scott’s Dancers. Christina also performed in numerous industrial shows nationally and internationally as a backup dancer for Will Smith, Mariah Carey and Boys II Men. After an active performing career, Christina became a teaching artist, training professional ballet dancers at The Rock School for Dance Education, The Philadelphia HS For Creative and Performing Arts, and various guest teaching through the US. Continuing with her career path, Christina became The Director of Community Outreach for The Rock School, RockReach Program for 20 years where she has advocated for arts programs for 75,000 children in the Philadelphia school system.
Through her work with RockReach, Christina developed a partnership with The DEA Educational Foundation. In 2016 began her role as Regional Manager of programs for Camden, New Orleans and Philadelphia.
“It is an honor to be a part of the DEAEF Youth Dance Program where we advocate for at-risk children to provide them with a safe space, mentorship and a feeling of accomplishment through a drug free lifestyle with activities like the YDP. I see the tremendous impact the DEAEF has on the youth across the United States. From education to prevention, youth programs and activities, scholarships, to caring instructors, partners and team members, who have one goal to assist our youth on their journeys.”
Christina is honored to be a part of The DEA Youth Dance Program where she can help advocate for at-risk children and to provide them with a safe space, mentors and a feeling of accomplishment through a drug free lifestyle and dance. Christina is proud to now be the Associate Director of The YDP and continue to grow consulting for all youth programs.
During her free time, Christina enjoys spending time with her husband, 4 beautiful children and 3 adorable fur babies.
