RUTH CASTILLO

Chief Career Services Officer, Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF)

Mrs. Castillo is the Chief Career Services Officer for the Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF), one of the nation’s leading nonprofit organizations. HSF has awarded over $730 million in scholarships and provides extensive programs and support services to students, parents, Scholars, and Alumni. 

With over 18 years of experience as a Talent Executive, Mrs. Castillo specializes in people strategies, departmental development, and strategic advisory roles. She spearheaded the creation of a cornerstone managed recruitment service at HSF, significantly increasing sponsorship from existing partners and creating a new revenue stream. She has built strong  relationships with Fortune 500 talent executives, facilitating internships and competitive full time opportunities for HSF and Gates Foundation Scholars. With her leadership, HSF has become a market leader in university and early talent recruitment. 

Mrs. Castillo built and expanded the Career Services department, recruiting and training senior leaders who serve over 20,000 Scholars annually. Her efforts have successfully placed thousands of Scholars and Alumni in life-changing career opportunities. 

Before joining HSF, Mrs. Castillo was a seasoned talent executive in Los Angeles, CA, serving as a Regional Branch Manager and executive search professional for top search firms. She received numerous accolades, including the Founder’s Club awards and "Shining Star" honors for regional recruitment achievements. Her strategic skills secured key staffing partnerships and managed high-volume, full-cycle recruitment for Fortune 500 clients. 

Mrs. Castillo holds a bachelor’s degree in international studies with an emphasis in Business  Administration from Pepperdine University and a master’s degree in business administration and human resources from Keller Graduate School. She is a member of CHIEF, a private network for executive women, and served on the board of the University of California Santa Barbara Executive Education. In addition to her professional commitments, Mrs. Castillo serves as the  Worship Pastor at her local church, highlighting her profound love for music and ministry. Her family actively participates in Scouting America, preparing young people for a life of impact, service, and leadership. 

As a first-generation college graduate from a Salvadoran family, Mrs. Castillo's journey exemplifies resilience and determination. She was raised with a belief in the power of curiosity and the importance of asking questions, principles she uses to inspire and mentor others. Her leadership reflects her talent for motivating action in others and her dedication to creating opportunities for young leaders. 

Mrs. Castillo is committed to addressing career undermatching, striving to ensure all students, regardless of their background, are prepared to secure jobs and internships aligned with their  academic pursuits. Her unwavering commitment to this mission underscores her role as a transformative leader, dedicated to helping every student and professional realize their full  potential and achieve their career aspirations.

Please contact Ruth at rcastillo@ednovate.org