MiraCosta College proudly announces that Dr. Freddy Ramirez, Interim Dean of Counseling and Student Development, has been honored as a 2023 Latino of Influence by the San Diego Business Journal.
This prestigious recognition underscores Dr. Ramirez’s monumental contributions to higher education, student success, and his relentless advocacy for the Latinx community.
About Dr. Freddy Ramirez
Born in Mexico and having immigrated to the United States in 1985, Dr. Ramirez’s life journey is a testimony to the transformative power of education. With a 25-year tenure at MiraCosta College, he has been pivotal in advancing academic and social support for a diverse student body, with a focus on Latinx students. Dr. Ramirez currently oversees a $3 million Title V Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) grant aimed at elevating academic achievements and retention rates among Latinx students.
Reasons for Nomination
- Trailblazing Educational Leader: Dr. Ramirez has been a stalwart of MiraCosta College since 2004, serving in various capacities that showcase his long-term dedication to education.
- Exceptional Academic Journey: His personal journey serves as an inspiration, proving that it's never too late to pursue an education and change one’s life trajectory.
- Advocate for Multicultural Counseling: Armed with a master's degree focusing on multicultural counseling, Dr. Ramirez is well-equipped to meet the unique challenges of a diverse student body.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Through meticulous data analysis, Dr. Ramirez has identified that Latinx enrollment decreased by 17% due to the COVID-19 pandemic and is actively implementing strategies to reverse this trend.
- Pioneering Strategies for Inclusion: Under Dr. Ramirez’s leadership, the Title V grant will introduce groundbreaking methods like early career concept introduction, enhanced academic support, and cultural competence training for faculty and staff.
- Promoting Economic Mobility: With the Title V grant, Dr. Ramirez is pioneering the introduction of paid internships for economically disadvantaged Latinx students.
