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www.HartfordBusiness.com • August 5, 2019 • Hartford Business Journal 21 40 UNDER FORTY 2019 J ulianna Cruz works for Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Connecti- cut's only not-for-profit health insurance plan. She began in a senior marketing role and transitioned into PR and partnership management. She is tasked with growing company awareness by relationship-building across communities and partnering to support local initiatives. With a deep love of business and a passion for uplifting others, par- ticularly in the realms of health and educational equity, Cruz is living her dream career. What's been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? I was at Camp Courant for a nutri- tion event that I developed for Hartford children. A small boy pointed at a to- mato and asked me 'Miss what is this? I've never seen one before.' It broke my heart and gave me hope in the work we do all at the same time. I adore my job. How are you involved in the commu- nity? Equity in education is so important to me because I wouldn't be here without the opportunities I've been awarded. Thus, I sit on the board of Camp Courant; I volunteer at Strat- ford Performing Arts Academy where I trained in music; and I sit on the alumni and Hartt School boards at the University of Hartford. What do you like to do outside of work? I love to travel. Exploring new plac- es in the perspective of those who live there builds so much gratitude and understanding. If everyone carved out some time to explore I think we would be a much more tolerant society. My favorite trips have been to Međugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Havana, Cuba. Four reasons why you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty: I struggle with this question. I don't think any list of accolades I could provide would make me feel 'deserving' of anything. Truly this recognition is a testament to the relationships I've built by doing what I love every single day. Winning an award of this stature at 26 I hope can be an example to all my fellow '20-somethings' seeking direc- tion. Do what you love as thoroughly as you can, and you'll never feel like you're going to work. FUN FACT My first degree is in music. When I was 17 I won amateur night at the Apollo singing Tom Jones. Julianna Cruz Senior Public Relations Specialist, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Age: 26 No. of years with current company: 3 Town where I live: Stratford Town where I work: Hartford College: University of Hartford Highest degree: MBA Who is your favorite superhero: Storm Congratulations, Julianna Cruz. HaPiness is walking the walk to inspire the talk. At Harvard Pilgrim, we admire those who lead by example. This year's 40 Under 40 are defined as role models who are driven by success and motivated by challenges. We're proud to celebrate our very own Julianna Cruz for embodying these characteristics, and making those around her happier and healthier every single day. S:4.25" S:13.25" T:4.75" T:13.75"