“My personal experiences pushed me to continue exploring what public health means,” Richards said. “I think using those experiences and identities that you have in your personal life to fuel you is really important — and those perspectives are needed in the health field.”

In June, Richards graduated from the University of Washington Bothell with a master’s degree in Community Health & Social Justice. From selecting classes to pursuing research opportunities, her experiences were the driving force behind everything she did, including a fellowship with the UW’s Latino Center for Health. The Community Health & Social Justice program aims to support the urgent need for health professionals who understand the root causes of inequities — and have the education and skills to address them.

In her second year, Richards was awarded a fellowship with the Latino Center for Health — an interdisciplinary research center established under the UW’s School of Social Work to promote the health and well-being of Latinx individuals, families and communities in Washington. Offered annually, the fellowship is awarded to graduate or professional students who demonstrate a commitment to improving the health of Latinx communities.

Richards was nominated and endorsed by several SNHS faculty members.

I didn’t even know this was an opportunity that was out there. I’m so glad that the faculty were looking out for me and thought that I was a good fit.

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Justice in Public Health: Jacqueline Richards, MS ’25