Impactful Women of the 918: Krystal Reyes

Krystal Reyes holds the distinction of being the City of Tulsa’s first Latina Deputy Mayor, a position which involves overseeing the city’s education, youth and resilience initiatives. However, “While I am the first Latina and Mexican American Deputy Mayor, I will not be the last,” she says. “It is up to me and those in positions of leadership to help others see themselves in positions like this.”

She views her job as a chance to help Tulsa become a thriving city “where no one is or feels left behind.” Day-to-day, this includes (among other things) launching and developing the new Office of Children, Youth, and Families and the Tulsa Children’s Cabinet, whose goal is to put “an additional 15,000 youth on a path to economic mobility,” explains Reyes.

Even prior to becoming Deputy Mayor in February 2025, Reyes has had a rich career of advocating for children and families. In Tulsa, she was the City’s Chief Resilience Officer for five years. She has also worked in New York City, holding positions in the health department, the Office of the Mayor, the Committee for Hispanic Children and Families, and other organizations.

“I’ll take this opportunity to share a message with young people,” she says. “You may be young, but you are already part of something big. Your dreams, your voice, your actions, your kindness – they matter.” Reyes encourages young people to study history and government, to ask questions, register to vote, and “actively make your community the best it can be.”