San Juan College (SJC) proudly honors the life and legacy of Dr. Valorie “Vicky” F. Ramakka through a memorial endowment.
A Lasting Endowment Expanding Educational Access Through the ACE Center
This meaningful endowment reflects the extraordinary generosity of her husband, Jim Ramakka, along with heartfelt contributions from family and friends who were touched by Vicky’s lifelong passion for learning. As the fund approaches $200,000, its continued growth ensures that her commitment to education will have a powerful and lasting impact on students for generations to come.
An Endowment Dedicated to Expanding Educational Opportunity
The endowment directly supports the San Juan College Academic and Career Engagement (ACE) Center, strengthening its ability to serve learners throughout the region. The endowment will expand access to essential resources, including GED® testing, literacy materials, equipment, digital tools and books.
ACE Center Director Jennifer Martinez-Maestas emphasized the significance of this contribution, explaining:
“This endowment ensures that Dr. Ramakka’s passion for education lives on in every student who walks through our doors. Her legacy will strengthen the ACE Center’s ability to support learners at every stage of their educational journey.”
A Lifelong Commitment to Learning and Literacy
Dr. Ramakka’s life was defined by curiosity, service and a commitment to educational excellence. Raised on a farm in upstate New York, she began her academic journey at Cornell University, later earning her Doctorate in Education. Her dedication led her to serve as the Nevada State Director of Education before she joined San Juan College, where she became a champion for literacy and student success.
Vicky's passion for storytelling also flourished in the Four Corners region. She authored two Southwest mystery novels, The Cactus Plot and The Pearl Plot, weaving her deep appreciation for the desert landscape into compelling fiction enjoyed by readers.
A Legacy That Continues to Transform Lives
The impact of the endowment reaches far beyond financial assistance. It carries forward a philosophy that education has the power to change lives, strengthen communities and create opportunity where it is needed most.
San Juan College Foundation Executive Director Gayle Dean reflected on the importance of the endowment:
“The generosity behind this fund reflects Vicky’s belief in the power of education to transform lives. We are honored to steward this endowment and ensure her impact continues for generations to come.”
Vicky’s story illustrates how one person’s commitment to service, literacy and learning can spark enduring change. Her legacy now lives on through every student who discovers new possibilities at the ACE Center.
