Biography of Senator Dan Cruce

Daniel Cruce is a Democratic state senator representing Delaware's First Senate District, which includes Bellefonte and parts of Alapocas, Edgemoor, and Wilmington.

Originally from Chesapeake, Virginia, Cruce moved to Delaware in 1996 to pursue his legal education. He has established himself as a dedicated public servant with extensive experience in education policy, legal affairs, and community development throughout Delaware.

Education

Cruce earned his undergraduate degree in International Affairs from James Madison University, a public institution. He obtained his Juris Doctorate from Delaware Law School.

Political Experience and Professional Positions

Cruce's career in public service began while he was still in law school, when he worked for then-Senator Joe Biden. Following graduation, he clerked for Delaware's Family Court and later served as a law clerk for the Honorable Kent A. Jordan in the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in Delaware.

In education policy, Cruce held significant leadership roles with the Christina School District, serving as Assistant Superintendent and Chief of Staff to Dr. Lillian Lowery. When Dr. Lowery became Secretary of Education under Governor Jack Markell, Cruce advanced to Deputy Secretary of Education and Chief of Staff, where he worked with educators, parents, and communities to strengthen public schools statewide.

At the national level, Cruce served as Education Vice President at Hope Street Group, where he integrated educator voice into policy decisions across the country.

Currently, Cruce serves as Chief Operating Officer of United Way of Delaware, where he advances the organization's mission through programs including Delaware 211, a public-private partnership connecting Delawareans with health and human services resources. He also raises funding from businesses, labor unions, and individuals throughout the state.

Beyond his professional roles, Cruce has volunteered with numerous community organizations including the Delaware Humane Association, Delaware Theatre Company, Delaware Community Foundation, and Philanthropy Delaware. He resides in Wilmington with his spouse, Bart Dryden, a retired public-school teacher and principal.