Honoring our Great-Hearted Veterans: Jennifer Ramirez

On this Veteran’s Day, we are privileged to count among our faculty and staff the men and women who have worn the uniform of our nation’s armed forces. Their courage, discipline, and devotion to service embody the same virtues we cultivate in the minds and hearts of our students.

Jennifer Ramirez has been with Great Hearts for eight years and currently serves as the Director of Career Pathways for the Great Hearts America Professional Development Team. Ramirez joined the Army straight out of high school and served for 4 years before having to medically retire due to an injury. “I served here in San Antonio at the Institute of Surgical Research as a Medical Research Laboratory Technician, working on projects that helped to protect and treat soldiers deployed such as the improved Kevlar helmet and a clotting treatment for battle wounds,” she explained. “After I got out, I continued to partner with the military in a variety of volunteer roles, including a community spotlight hour on the post radio station, co-leading a momma and kiddo workout group, and organizing events for military families. I stepped away from those roles when I moved back to San Antonio to be close to home, but I now am a proud parent of an Engineer in the Air Force who is currently serving in Japan.”

Ramirez says that much of her military experience has impacted her work at Great Hearts. “I understand the importance of service, which aligns with the Great Hearts core value of having a servant’s heart,” she shared. “In my role, I am constantly looking for ways to serve the various regions and campuses in their needs. I find fulfillment in knowing that the resources I create, trainings I lead, and the coaching support I give allows campus leaders and teachers are able to do the important work of serving scholars. It’s all about serving those who serve them. I also think there is an overall impact in the pride I take in my work, the perseverance I bring to challenges, and the commitment to mission that translates over to my work at Great Hearts because of things instilled in me through my military affiliation.”

On behalf of the entire Great Hearts community, we extend our deepest gratitude to all who have served. Your courage in defense of our country and your continued commitment to forming young hearts and minds inspire us daily. Thank you for living out the virtues that make both a great citizen and a great educator.

Do you have a story or know of one that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts? Please contact jmoore@greatheartsamerica.org.

Submit a student application to a Great Hearts Academy by visiting: https://www.greatheartsamerica.org/enroll/.