Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Spotlight: Joey Cagigas

May marks Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, an annual celebration honoring the rich historical and cultural legacies of individuals and groups in the US with Asian and Pacific Islander ancestry. The AAPI umbrella term includes people from the entire Asian continent—including East, Southeast and South Asia—and the Pacific Islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia. Throughout history, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have contributed significantly to many facets of American culture and society, including science and medicine, literature and art, sports and recreation, government and politics, and activism and law. This month, we’re recognizing some of our own at UF Health Jacksonville and the UF College of Medicine – Jacksonville, who are a part of the AAPI community making an impact in the health care service they provide.

Meet Joey Cagigas, an IT Specialist that has been with UF Health Jacksonville for seven years.

What do you enjoy about working at UF Health?

It is with pride and honor to be part of this great organization that promotes helping the community far and wide and caters to all backgrounds. I enjoy learning new things with passionate colleagues and great mentors that provide valuable perspectives.

What does your AAPI Heritage mean to you?

To me, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Months means family and being resilient. Growing up I was taught that to be successful, I had to be resilient in all avenues and in difficult times.

How is your AAPI Heritage reflected in your day-to-day work activities?

It’s really amazing to have this month to highlight Asian Heritage. This truly reminds every one of the cultural diaspora here. As a Filipino-American, I feel I have a responsibility to share my culture, experiences, food, language and history with the people around me. I believe in life that “Beautiful things will happen, if you work hard and believe in yourself”.