FRANCHESCA DE LA CRUZ

Kicking off the 2025-26 academic year, the School of Criminal Justice is proud to feature standout student Franchesca De La Cruz.

Franchesca’s journey to Rutgers University–Newark began with a deep-rooted sense of responsibility not just to herself, but to her family, her community, and the bigger picture of justice and equity.

The 21-year-old Dominican and first-generation college student is entering her senior year as a Criminal Justice major with a minor in Social Justice, and is also proudly enrolled in Rutgers’ five-year accelerated Master’s program, where she’s continuing to explore the intersections of law, policy, and systems reform.

“I didn’t grow up around people who had access to higher education, but my parents’ sacrifices and work ethic are the reason I chose to pursue it,” she says. “They pushed me to dream bigger, even when the odds were tough.”

At Rutgers, Franchesca has intentionally taken up space and made her presence known on campus not just as a student, but as a leader, advocate, and change agent. She’s an active member of the Honors Living-Learning Community (HLLC), where she serves as a counselor and ambassador, and she’s also involved with the Criminal Justice Club, using every opportunity to amplify the voices and needs of her peers.

She hopes to one day work in compliance, risk, or policy spaces where she can challenge harmful norms and help institutions become more equitable and accountable. “I’m interested in how systems operate and how they can do better. My Criminal Justice background gives me the lens to ask tough questions, while my Social Justice studies remind me to center people in the answers.”

Franchesca chose Rutgers because of its commitment to public service and its diversity. She credits the university and especially the HLLC for helping her grow in confidence, clarity, and purpose. “Rutgers-Newark isn’t just where I go to school. It’s where I learned to own my identity, speak up, and take initiative.”

As graduation approaches, Franchesca is both nervous and excited about what’s next. But one thing is certain: she plans to keep showing up for others, just like so many showed up for her.