Ruth A. Cresenzo, J.D.

Full Biography

Ruth A. Cresenzo, J.D., is a retired Lieutenant Colonel, former Judge Advocate, and nationally recognized authority on military-connected legal practice. She founded Cresenzo Consulting & Mediation to bridge the gap between military systems and civilian teams, and to assist in resolving conflicts in complex and sensitive matters — bringing cross-system analysis, jurisdictional expertise, and institutional knowledge.

She brings more than three decades of combined civilian and military experience, including national leadership in developing the National Guard's Special Victims' Counsel program. She was the first female Judge Advocate in the NC Army National Guard and one of the program's inaugural Special Victims' Counsel, before becoming Deputy Program Manager, where she led in development and resourcing.

Ruth has presented at more than 30 national, regional, and statewide conferences, and provided training and education for thousands of military personnel and military leadership. Her work has been recognized with the American Bar Association's Distinguished Service Award for Legal Assistance to Military Personnel.

Ruth also serves as Executive Director of CHANCE, a nonprofit empowering crime victims through legal advocacy, navigation, and education. Cresenzo Consulting & Mediation was founded to help fund that mission — with one-third of all fees donated to CHANCE and to local DV/SA organizations.