With over a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector, Liz Ramírez is committed to serving and improving the lives of children, youth, and families in San Diego County and beyond. She currently serves as the President & CEO of Chicano Federation, a 55-year-old organization that continues to be at the forefront of equity and access for these same communities, touching the lives of more than 50,000 individuals and families annually.
Raised on both sides of the border in the Imperial Valley, Liz comes from a low-income, immigrant, and first-generation household. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from UC San Diego and pursued a master’s degree in educational counseling to address equity gaps in education, particularly those affecting historically underserved youth.
Since assuming leadership at Chicano Federation in 2022, Liz Ramírez has embarked on a transformative journey marked by an unwavering dedication to amplifying community voices and narrowing the pervasive equity gaps prevalent in critical areas such as affordable housing, education, workforce development, and leadership opportunities. Under her guidance, the organization has embarked on a bold new strategic plan, highlighting Chicano Federation’s mission to cultivate opportunities and advocate for a more equitable comunidad. At the forefront of her initiatives is the relaunch of the Leadership Training Institute after a 20-year hiatus, a groundbreaking program aimed at equipping and mobilizing leaders to confront equity disparities across San Diego County. Presently, the program boasts a cohort of twenty-three fellows representing diverse employment sectors, each paired with a mentor who embodies leadership within the community. Liz’s overarching vision is for the Leadership Training Institute, alongside other Chicano Federation initiatives, to foster brave spaces where communities and partners can come together to create a better San Diego for all.
When Liz is not fiercely advocating and leading movements that support equity and justice for marginalized communities, she enjoys dancing cumbias, meditating, practicing yoga, and spending time with family, friends, and her “Hermanita”, her seven-year mentee from MANA de San Diego’s mentorship program. In addition to her mentorship role, Liz serves as a dedicated board member, contributing her expertise and passion to furthering MANA de San Diego’s mission of empowering Latinas to reach their full potential.
In every facet of her life, Liz Ramírez exemplifies resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to social justice. Her multifaceted approach to advocacy and community engagement serves as an inspiration to all who aspire to create positive change in the world. As she continues to lead the Chicano Federation and champion the rights of underserved communities, Liz remains a steadfast advocate for equity, justice, and the inherent dignity of every individual. To learn more about Liz and the work she does, visit ChicanoFederation.org
