At Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences (PNWU), Hispanic Heritage Month is more than a celebration—it’s a call to recognize the powerful role that culture, language, and lived experience play in shaping compassionate healthcare. Through the voices of students, faculty, and staff, this month’s reflections illuminate the deep connections between heritage and healing, and the importance of representation in medicine.
For Alessandra de la Cruz, OMSII, growing up in Toppenish, WA meant witnessing firsthand the mistrust many minority communities feel toward healthcare providers. “I wanted to be a physician who changed that,” she said.
“I am proud to be someone from the Lower Valley who can show younger generations that a career in medicine is right down the freeway.”
Alessandra is especially excited for the Raíces y Ritmos event on October 13, which will welcome the Yakima community to PNWU’s campus. “We cannot wait to see community members join us and shape the future.”
Gabriela Gomez, OMSII, was inspired by her upbringing in a predominantly Latine inner city in Los Angeles. “Witnessing healthcare inequalities firsthand, I chose medicine so that I could become a trusted resource where patients feel heard and valued,” she said. Gabriela helped organize this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month events, with support from PNWU staff in the Office of Opportunity and Diversity. “This celebration represents my commitment to improving healthcare inequalities and offers a valuable opportunity to share my culture.”
Richie Hochrein, OMSII, emphasized the importance of cultural and linguistic competency in rural areas like Yakima County, where over 52% of residents identify as Hispanic/Latino.
“Expanding Hispanic representation among healthcare providers will foster trust, improve access, and shape a more equitable future,” he said.
Richie is especially excited about the Raíces y Ritmos finale, which will feature food trucks, music, and a car show sponsored by Borrachos Car Club. “Bring some cash to support local Hispanic vendors and enjoy a fun evening of community and celebration!”
Dr. Katina Rue, DO, Adjunct Assistant Professor of Family Medicine, shared how her heritage influences her practice. “Celebrating what makes us unique and what we bring to our patients and communities is important,” she said. She also reflected on the challenge of not being perceived as “Hispanic enough.” “Patients love it when they find out—it brings us closer and more connected.”
Nubia Delgado, a counselor at PNWU, spoke candidly about the stigma surrounding mental health in Hispanic culture. “Growing up, I often heard the phrase, ‘solo los locos van con un consejero,’” she said. Her heritage instilled a deep sense of responsibility to make healthcare more compassionate and accessible. “Representation matters—not only for students and professionals, but also for the patients we serve.”
Assistant Professor for the School of Dental Medicine Dr. Renata Monteiro, DDS, PhD, MSc, originally from Brazil, shared how her immigrant experience shaped her approach to healthcare and education.
“Living in a new country requires resilience, adaptation, and courage,” she said. “Hispanic Heritage Month reminds me that I am not alone—it fosters a true sense of belonging.”
Dr. Rosio Vargas-Negri, Associated Faculty in PNWU School of Physical Therapy, recalled translating for her parents during medical appointments and wanting to provide services in Spanish. “Representation directly impacts patient care and outcomes,” she said. She also reflected on being misidentified as “just” an interpreter. “I’ve learned to use those moments to advocate for myself and for representation in healthcare.”
Across all stories, a common theme emerges: Hispanic heritage is a source of strength, empathy, and purpose. Whether through language, cultural understanding, or lived experience, Hispanic healthcare professionals bring invaluable perspectives to the field—especially in rural and underserved communities.
PNWU’s Hispanic Heritage Month events have offered opportunities to celebrate, educate, and connect. From traditional dance at Baile Folklórico, to a presentation on medical interpretation, to the upcoming Raíces y Ritmos celebration, these gatherings highlight the richness of Hispanic culture and the importance of community engagement.
Raíces y Ritmos will take place on Friday, October 13 at 5:00 PM on PNWU’s campus. The event is open to the public, and all are invited to enjoy food trucks, music, a car show, and the chance to support local Hispanic vendors. It promises to be a lively and meaningful evening of culture, connection, and celebration.
As Hispanic Heritage Month continues, PNWU reaffirms its commitment to diversity and opportunity. By amplifying Hispanic voices and investing in representation, PNWU students are helping shape a healthcare system that reflects—and respects—the communities they serve.
