GRACIAS
Leadership Team
Welcome to the GRACIAS Leadership Team page!
Our team is composed of dedicated individuals who are passionate about making positive impact in the Gracias community.
Our team members come from diverse backgrounds and have studied various fields such as business, education, and social work.
"Valuable Change with Quality Leaders..."
With our combined knowledge, talents, and expertise in our dedicated fields, we are committed to creating a better future for GRACIAS through our leadership and community involvement.
Board of Trustees
Ricardo Ramos
Founder & President
Saludos! I graduated from Georgia Tech last year with a Bachelor's of Science. Aside from managing this nonprofit, I work full-time as a EMT for Grady and coach youth soccer in Lindbergh. Born and raised in metro Atlanta, I love to give back to my community. I also enjoy going to the gym and traveling.
Executive Committee
Erika Contreras
Director of Marketing
Hey! I'm an out of state undergraduate student from Texas majoring in Business Administration and Korean at Emory University. I’m involved with Catholic Charities as an assistant English teacher and love to be involved on campus. I love to watch Korean kdrama and K-pop. I am excited to give back to the Latino community as I continue my journey in Atlanta and get to know the people and their aspirations.
Department of Marketing
Ivan Zapote
Social Media Manager
Hello! I am a first-generation Mexican American, born and raised in South Georgia. After recently graduating from Georgia Tech, I took some time off to spend with friends and travel. Reflecting on my university experience, which I navigated somewhat blindly, I am eager to contribute to an organization that offers guidance and clarity to incoming university students from similar backgrounds.
Department of Outreach
Mayra Calderon
Cobb County Community Liason
Hello! I graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Anthropology and a minor in Biomedical Research from UCLA in the Summer of 2023. I spent most of my undergrad working as a lab technician and participating in research while also working various customer service roles. I’m now working towards my MD and looking forward to applying soon! I’m also a Mexican folklorico dancer for the TEOTL Foundation. I’m very passionate about serving my community and now serving the youth of Atlanta!
Department of Programs
Luis Lujan
Digital Resource Specialist
(WhatsApp)
Hola a todos! My name is Luis Lujan, and I’m a Biomedical Engineering student at Georgia Tech. I was born in Peru and moved to the U.S. at 16. If you know a great spot for ceviche or pollo a la brasa in Atlanta, let me know—I’m willing to drive hours for it!
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When I’m not buried in schoolwork, I spend my time volunteering as a medical interpreter or doing research. I believe education is a powerful tool for growth, and I hope to inspire others to embrace learning and overcome obstacles.
College Chapters
Valerie Zavala
President of Georgia Tech Chapter
Hola todos! My name is Valerie Zavala and I am a third year majoring in business administration with a concentration in IT management at Georgia tech. My heritage is Mexican! Helping out the Latino community is very important because it allows for the inclusion of diverse perspectives and experiences, while empowering communities so we can all thrive together.
