Dr. Sarah Inés Ramírez recognized by Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Dr. Sarah Inés Ramírez, associate professor of Family and Community Medicine and vice chair of Health Advancement and Community Engagement, was recently honored by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives with a citation that recognized her “extraordinary contributions to health equity, community empowerment, educational excellence and continued trailblazing in Pennsylvania.”
Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, who represents Pennsylvania’s 129th legislative district, sponsored the citation.
“Receiving a citation from the House of Representatives is an incredible honor, and it truly humbles me,” Ramírez says.
Ramírez says her work has always focused on the people she serves, not accolades. While unexpected, this recognition reaffirms her commitment to narrowing health disparities.
“It reminds me that addressing the social determinants of health – one person at a time – makes a difference,” she says. “This citation serves as both a recognition of that effort and a powerful motivation to continue fighting for a healthier, more equitable future for all.”
The citation highlighted:
- Her “extraordinary leadership and steadfast dedication to advancing health equity, social justice and community empowerment through her outstanding achievements and innovative, compassionate approach to health care.
- Her work as the executive board chair of the Latino Connection Foundation. In this role, Ramírez “has co-led the organization’s strategic plan, guided diverse teams and spearheaded initiatives to strengthen marginalized communities.” Under her leadership, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development designated the organization as a Community Housing Development Organization for expanding access to affordable housing in Pennsylvania.
- Her leadership in launching the National Hispanic Medical Association’s Pennsylvania Chapter in 2024 so Hispanic and Latino health care professionals from across the state could come together to address urgent health care disparities affecting Latino communities.The chapter’s flagship program, Fiesta de la Salud (Celebration of Health), a culturally responsive mobile health fair, has served more than 1,600 participants across the state of Pennsylvania, with services such as blood pressure and blood sugar monitoring, mammography, vaccinations and dental exams in just three events. Through a similar event in Puerto Rico, the chapter has helped address pediatric obesity and nutrition in some of the island’s most rural communities.
“This, as well as Dr. Ramírez’s contributions as founder of the Penn State Hispanic Professionals Association, has elevated Hispanic leadership, strengthened community ties and expanded mentorship and professional opportunities across the state,” the citation reads.
- Her service, leadership and continued commitment to creating a more just, inclusive and equitable health care system.
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