Honoring Dawn Ramirez: Boise State University Reflects on Her Legacy and Contributions

Boise State Community Mourns Loss of Graduate College Administrator

BOISE, ID – August 22, 2025 – Boise State University is in mourning following the passing of Dawn Ramirez, Administrative Manager of the Graduate College. Ramirez passed away after a heroic battle with cancer.

Ramirez dedicated over two decades to Boise State, beginning her service in 2003. She was a pivotal figure, known for her unwavering dedication to the success of students and colleagues alike.

“Nothing made Dawn more proud than to hear about and support students and colleagues’ individual successes, and the success of the Graduate College,” stated Dean Scott Lowe. “She was a fierce advocate for everything that is right in our office, on campus, and in the larger community, and her loss will be deeply felt both personally and professionally.”

The university is prioritizing support services for those affected by Ramirez’s passing. Resources are available for faculty, staff, and students navigating this challenging time.

Resources Available for Support

Boise State provides a comprehensive array of support for its campus community.

| Resource | Description | Contact Information |
|—|—|—|
| Employee Assistance Program (EAP) | Confidential counseling and support services for employees and student staff. | [phone] (Identify as a Boise State University employee) |
| Human Resource Services Employee Relations | Support for workplace concerns and conflict resolution. | [phone] |
| Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) | Information on leave options for qualifying situations. | https://www.boisestate.edu/hrs/benefits/family-and-medical-leave/ |
| Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accommodations | Assistance for individuals needing accommodations in thier role. | https://www.boisestate.edu/compliance/ada/ |
| CARE referral | A process for reporting concerns about a student or employee exhibiting concerning behavior. | https://www.boisestate.edu/care/when-to-refer/#distressing |

💡 Did You Know? Employee Assistance Programs have become increasingly vital in supporting employee well-being, especially in times of stress and loss.

Details regarding memorial services and opportunities to honour Ramirez’s memory will be shared as they become available.

Do you think universities are doing enough to support staff well-being? What additional resources could be helpful during times of grief and loss?

What specific programs or initiatives did Dawn Ramirez spearhead within TRIO Student support Services to directly address the challenges faced by first-generation students?

A Pillar of Student Support: Dawn Ramirez’s Impact at Boise State

Dawn Ramirez, a beloved figure at Boise State University, left an indelible mark on countless students and the campus community. Her dedication to student success, notably within the first-generation student population, continues to inspire initiatives and programs long after her passing. This article explores Ramirez’s contributions, the lasting impact of her work, and how Boise State is actively preserving her legacy. We’ll delve into specific programs she championed, the scholarships established in her name, and the ongoing efforts to support the students she so passionately served.

The Heart of TRIO Student Support Services

Ramirez dedicated over two decades to Boise State’s TRIO Student Support Services (SSS), a federally funded program designed to assist first-generation, low-income, and students with disabilities in achieving their academic goals.

Program Leadership: As a key leader within TRIO SSS, Ramirez wasn’t simply an administrator; she was a mentor, advocate, and champion for students navigating the complexities of higher education.

First-Generation Focus: her deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by first-generation collage students fueled her commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive habitat. She recognized the systemic barriers these students often encounter and worked tirelessly to dismantle them.

Academic Coaching & Workshops: Ramirez spearheaded the development of crucial academic coaching programs and workshops covering topics like time management, study skills, financial literacy, and graduate school readiness. These resources were instrumental in boosting student retention and graduation rates.

Personalized Guidance: Beyond workshops,Ramirez was known for providing individualized support,helping students navigate course selection,connect with campus resources,and overcome personal obstacles.

The dawn Ramirez Scholarship fund: investing in Future Generations

Following her untimely passing in 2023, the Boise State community rallied to establish the Dawn Ramirez Scholarship Fund. This scholarship serves as a powerful testament to her commitment to student access and success.

Scholarship Criteria: The scholarship prioritizes students who embody the spirit of Dawn Ramirez – first-generation students demonstrating financial need, academic promise, and a commitment to giving back to their communities.

Fundraising Efforts: Initial fundraising campaigns,including a GoFundMe initiative and university-sponsored events,quickly surpassed expectations,demonstrating the widespread impact Ramirez had on those she touched.

Impact on Student Access: The scholarship directly addresses the financial barriers that frequently enough prevent qualified first-generation students from pursuing higher education. It provides crucial funding for tuition, fees, books, and living expenses.

Ongoing Support: the scholarship isn’t just about financial assistance; it also provides recipients with mentorship opportunities and access to the TRIO SSS network, ensuring they receive complete support throughout their academic journey.

Beyond TRIO: Ramirez’s University-Wide Influence

Ramirez’s influence extended beyond the TRIO SSS program, impacting various facets of student life at Boise State.

Collaboration with Student Affairs: She actively collaborated with the Division of Student Affairs to advocate for policies and initiatives that promote equity and inclusion.

Mentoring Emerging Leaders: Ramirez consistently mentored student employees and emerging leaders, fostering a pipeline of future advocates for student success.

Championing Diversity & Inclusion: She was a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion initiatives,working to create a more welcoming and equitable campus environment for all students.

Campus Resource Navigation: Ramirez became a go-to resource for students and staff alike, known for her extensive knowledge of campus resources and her ability to connect individuals with the support they needed.

Preserving the Legacy: Ongoing Initiatives at Boise State

Boise State University is committed to preserving Dawn Ramirez’s legacy through several ongoing initiatives.

annual Remembrance Events: The university hosts annual remembrance events to honor Ramirez’s life and contributions, providing a space for the campus community to reflect on her impact.

TRIO SSS Program Enhancements: The TRIO SSS program continues to evolve, incorporating Ramirez’s vision for student support and expanding its reach to serve more students.

First-Generation Student Initiatives: Boise State is actively investing in new initiatives specifically designed to support first-generation students, building upon the foundation laid by Ramirez.

Continued Scholarship Fundraising: Fundraising efforts for the Dawn Ramirez Scholarship Fund continue, ensuring that future generations of students have access to the opportunities she championed.

Resources for First-Generation Students at boise State

TRIO Student Support Services: https://trio.boisestate.edu/

Boise State Scholarship Office: https://www.boisestate.edu/scholarships/

First Generation Student Success: https://www.boisestate.edu/firstgen/

Dawn ramirez Scholarship Fund: (Link to donation page – replace with actual link when available)