Robert Murakami scholar

Congratulations to Rica Ann Dela Cruz, the 2022 Robert Murakami Scholarship recipient! Rica grew up on Saipan in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. By attaining a PhD in Public Health, she wants to contribute more research and knowledge on how to improve the health of indigenous people in the Micronesia region. Dela Cruz’s goal is to expand cross-sectoral capacity building and conduct community-based research that will produce culturally-tailored interventions and introduce evidence based health policies for the underserved people of Micronesia. Photo shows Dela Cruz, left, with Hawaii Gov. David Ige.

Rica Ann Dela Cruz