2027 Women with Heart Honoree
Kerin A. Da Cruz
UF Health
Kerin A. Da Cruz has over 30 years in healthcare and is a graduate of Rhode Island College where she received her bachelor’s degree in nursing and the University of Rhode Island where she received her master’s degree in nursing administration.
In 2009, Kerin became the Assistant Chief Nursing Officer at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital in New London, Connecticut. In June 2015, Kerin was promoted to Chief Administrative Officer of Westerly Hospital. She assumed the role of Vice President of Operations at Westerly Hospital/Yale New Haven Health in June 2017 and in June 2020, was promoted to Chief Nursing Officer for L+M Healthcare/Yale New Haven Health. In addition to this role, she directly led laboratory services, public safety, diagnostic imaging, food and nutrition services, and oncology services. In February 2024, Kerin assumed the role of Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer for UF Health Jacksonville. In May 2025, she was promoted to Chief Operating Officer and serves in this capacity for the UF Northeast Florida region.
Kerin was adjunct faculty at the University of Rhode Island where she taught executive leadership and culture change in healthcare organizations. She received the Luminary Award from URI for her contributions to professional practice and education. She also received the Honor Role award from Rhode Island College for her contributions to the profession of nursing. She is a board-certified nurse executive, a Fellow in the American College of Health Care Executives, and a member of several professional organizations. Currently, Kerin serves on the Board of Directors for the Sulzbacher Center and on the Dean’s Advisory Board for the University of Rhode Island.
