Joan Cruz, MS, PMP 

Joan Cruz is a senior public sector and nonprofit administrator with a strong background in research support, organizational operations, and project management. 

Her professional experience includes extensive involvement in community-based participatory research (CBPR), with long-standing service as an Institutional Review Board (IRB) liaison and administrator, supporting protocols, regulatory documentation, committee coordination, and compliance-related processes. She has also co-authored research and dissemination publications focused on health disparities and community engagement, contributing to knowledge translation and community-informed research efforts. 

In addition, Joan has led and coordinated information technology and data support projects that strengthen organizational capacity, including the implementation of program databases, coordination with external technology vendors, and support for data systems used in research and program operations. She has a strong interest in technology-enabled, data-driven initiatives that improve decision-making, research efficiency, and institutional effectiveness. Her experience also includes facilities and organizational operations oversight, supporting safe, compliant, and well-functioning research and program environments. Her work further encompasses project and program management, grant and contract support, and coordination of research-related convenings and public-facing events. 

She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Inter American University of Puerto Rico, a master’s degree in management from the University of Saint Joseph, and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Joan is committed to advancing ethical research practices, strengthening institutional capacity, and supporting research initiatives that improve health outcomes for Hispanic and underserved communities.