BY ANGELINA PARISI, YUCAIPA CALIMESA NEWS MIRROR REPORTER
The Yucaipa-Calimesa Joint Unified School District Board of Education recognized Yucaipa High School student Gesenia Ramirez with the superintendent’s “Making a Difference” Award, highlighting her leadership and dedication to both her school and the broader Yucaipa community.
Nominated by the Yucaipa High School counseling team, Ramirez was honored for her wide-ranging involvement and impact. She serves as the YHS Student Council president and as chairperson of the city’s Youth Advisory Committee, where she has helped lead initiatives such as the high school’s first Mental Health Week and community events including Autumnfest.
Her commitment to service extends across campus organizations. Ramirez is president of the Health and Biomedical Leadership Team and vice president of the YHS Community Service Club, where she works to promote medical awareness and expand volunteer opportunities for students.
Student board member Kim Pham acknowledged not only her close relationship with Ramirez, but also her ability to balance multiple leadership roles while remaining deeply engaged in each one.
“Yes, even though she wears a lot of hats…she never sees it as a chore. She sees it more as a passion, and whenever she participates in these activities, she feels so fulfilled,” Pham said, recognizing the multiple leadership roles Ramirez takes.
Ramirez said she was grateful for the recognition.
“I’m honored to receive this award,” she said.
She also thanked the board, staff and her teachers, adding that it is not often common to find boards willing to work closely with students and listen to their ideas.