Yanitza A. Cruz Crespo

Yanitza A. Cruz Crespo

Graduate Assistant in Communication Arts and Sciences
316 Sparks Building University Park, PA 16802 University Park , PA 16802

Curriculum Vitae

Education

B.A., Universidad de Puerto Rico, 2019
M.A., Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 2020
M.A., Penn State University, 2023
Ph.D., Penn State University, anticipated 2027

Professional Bio

Yanitza Cruz Crespo studies the intersection between activism, social media, and vaccination. Her work analyzes online groups whose activism can be harmful to others, particularly anti-vaccination groups on social media. Social media activism scholarship has largely focused on whether online activism has been translated into offline actions. However, her work argues that online activism on health issues can have a significant impact without requiring offline efforts. Methodologically, Yanitza employs machine learning and social network analysis to investigate the public conversation regarding intention to vaccinate on social media. Her research has been published in Computer in Human Behavior. 

Yanitza is currently a Research Assistant for a Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture-funded project led by Dr. Shannon Cruz and Dr. Dave Keating (University of New Mexico). In addition to research, Yanitza teaches Effective Speech (CAS 100A).  

Advisor: Dr. Shannon Cruz