Kathleen Morris
President / Founder
In 2022, Kathleen Morris founded the Captain Kandis Cookie Ruiz Foundation (CKCRF) as a tribute to her beloved daughter’s legacy of community service, military dedication, and involvement in rugby. Inspired by her daughter Captain Kandis Ruiz, a United States Marine Aviator M V-22 Osprey pilot who bravely battled stage 4 colon cancer before tragically passing away in 2021, Kathleen transformed her family’s grief into a purposeful endeavor. Her mission is to create a national nonprofit organization that provides crucial out-of-pocket financial support for individuals diagnosed with cancer, particularly those interested in alternative, integrative, naturopathic, or holistic treatment options and supporting rugby players with travel and equipment needs.
Alongside her role as the president of CKCRF, Kathleen is an active participant and committee member of the Get Your Rear in Gear – San Antonio Colon Cancer Coalition 5K run. In 2023, she spearheaded the advertising efforts for this important event. For over 26 years, Kathleen has built a distinguished career in the financial banking environment, fulfilling various roles with excellence. Notably, she serves as a Human Resources Facilitator, leveraging her expertise to support her organization and colleagues.
Kathleen’s educational background includes a double major bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Paralegal Science/Adult Learning. Additionally, she completed the academic requirements of the International Association of Professions Career College, earning recognition with a successful completion certificate in Non-Profit Business Ownership.
Driven by her passion for making a positive impact and honoring her daughter’s legacy, Kathleen stands at the forefront of CKCRF’s vital initiatives. Her remarkable service and dedication journey has touched countless individuals’ lives, providing them with the support they need during their cancer journey and empowering rugby players to thrive.
Bruce Boggan
Treasurer
During the Vietnam Era in 1968, Bruce L. Boggan served with honor as a United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal. He dedicated his service to the South Vietnam Delta Company, 1st Division, 3rd Marines, and FMF Westpac. Mr. Boggan was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with Device, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, and the Combat Action Ribbon for his bravery and commitment. His unit participated in combat operations across northern Vietnam, including cities like Danang, Quang Tri, Dong Ha, and Hoi An. Additionally, he served in the Combined Action Group II MAF, specializing in Maintenance and Drafting.
Mr. Boggan holds the Life Safety Code Surveyor position for The Joint Commission, a prestigious 503B organization responsible for certifying hospitals on behalf of the Centers for Medicare Services. His remarkable career in healthcare commenced in 1987 as a Plant Manager at a psychiatric hospital for teenagers. Since then, he has held directorial roles in engineering at various healthcare facilities across Texas, Florida, and Louisiana.
Bruce’s expertise in Life Safety Code, Environment of Care, and Emergency Management has led him to become a sought-after speaker for Joint Commission Resources, an esteemed division of The Joint Commission. His speaking engagements share his profound knowledge and insights with healthcare professionals.
Education has played a significant role in Bruce’s journey. He is a proud graduate of the University of Phoenix, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Services. Additionally, he holds a Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Healthcare Management, further enriching his professional qualifications.
Bruce L. Boggan exemplifies a life dedicated to service, both in the military and in healthcare. His invaluable expertise and commitment continue to contribute to the betterment of healthcare practices and standards.
Kittery Ruiz
Secretary / Vice President of Sports and Entertainment
Kittery Ruiz currently holds the position of Assistant Women’s Rugby Coach at Brown University, where she brings her wealth of knowledge and experience to guide and inspire the team. Before this role, she served as the esteemed Women’s Premier League Commissioner for nearly three years, impacting the league’s development and success. Notably, while fulfilling her duties as Commissioner, Ruiz also took on the responsibility of Head Coach for the Women’s Premier League Selectside.
Ruiz’s coaching journey includes notable positions such as Head Coach of the Atlanta Harlequins Women’s Rugby Club, Head Coach of Glendale Women’s Rugby, and assistant coaching roles at Life University and with the USA U20 Women’s National Team. Her coaching and player development dedication has left an indelible mark on the women’s rugby landscape.
Before transitioning into coaching, Ruiz enjoyed a distinguished playing career. She spent seven remarkable years (2003-2010) with the Beantown RFC, followed by three successful years (2011-2014) with Glendale Women’s Rugby, culminating in the team’s triumphant capture of the 2014 National Championship. Ruiz’s talent and skill were recognized on an international level when she was selected for the 2009 Women’s World Cup Training Squad. In 2010, she proudly represented the USA Women’s National XVs team as a utility player at the prestigious 2010 Women’s World Cup in England. Continuing her international journey, Ruiz showcased her prowess as a hooker for the United States at the 2014 Women’s World Cup in France.
Ruiz’s academic achievements are equally impressive. She graduated from SUNY Potsdam in 2003, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Psychology. Building upon her foundation, she went on to obtain a Master of Mathematics for Teachers from Boston University in 2007.
Kittery Ruiz exemplifies a remarkable combination of leadership, dedication, and excellence in women’s rugby. Her contributions as a player, coach, and advocate for the sport have made a lasting impact. Through her guidance and mentorship, she continues to inspire the next generation of rugby players at Brown University and beyond.