Grace Anne Dela Cruz, a junior at the University of Guam majoring in Nursing with a minor in Public Administration, has been named a 2025 Truman Scholar, one of the nation’s most prestigious scholarships for students pursuing careers in public service.

She is one of 60 students selected nationwide from an applicant pool of 743 candidates representing 288 institutions.

Dela Cruz is the 22nd Truman Scholar in the University’s history and the first ever from its nursing program.

“Receiving this scholarship reminds me that my work does not go unnoticed,” Dela Cruz said. “It humbles and inspires me to know that the work that I do has made a difference, and that with this new opportunity as a Truman Scholar, I can continue to do so.”

The Truman Scholarship awards $30,000 toward graduate studies and provides access to leadership training and a network of change-makers. Dela Cruz currently serves as Secretary for the 63rd UOG Student Government Association and as the UOG Representative in the 35th Guam Youth Congress. She credits the University with shaping her leadership journey.

“UOG has given me so much opportunity and hope and being a student here has allowed me to grow into the leader that I am within the comfort of the community I call home,” she said.

UOG President Anita Borja Enriquez expressed her congratulations to Dela Cruz for representing the very best of the University.

“One very special thing that UOG has to offer is access to mentors among faculty, peers, and alumni,” Enriquez said. “This recognition speaks to Grace Anne’s distinction above other candidates, her passion for community service, and to the mentorship that surrounds her. As our 22nd Truman Scholar, this is a proud moment for our Triton community — especially our nursing and public service programs — and a reminder of the talent we’re growing right here at home.”

Dean of Enrollment Management and Student Success, Dr. Gena Rojas, along with other administrators, also shared their appreciation for the continued support of previous Truman Scholars Julie Ann Laxamana and UOG alumnus Christian Gyles Ramos to assist this year’s candidates through mentorship, mock interviews, and informational sessions.

Dela Cruz expressed her heartfelt thanks to her family and peers for their support.

“I would first like to thank my mom for all the support and encouragement she always gives me, especially throughout the application process. I remember telling her I didn’t think I was good enough to apply for this scholarship, but she pushed me to do it anyway because she believed in me,” she said.