Kara Ramirez
When did you join UTHealth Houston? What brought you here?
I joined UTHealth Houston Medical School May 2, 2002. I applied at the encouragement of a neighbor, after standing up for many homeowners’ rights in our subdivision at our quarterly meetings. She believed I would make a great asset to the team in the Office of Student Affairs at the time.
Tell us about your work history here.
Since the first day I was hired, I have always worked in Student Affairs. I was the executive assistant to the associate dean – Dr. Margaret C. McNeese, at the time, who is now our vice dean. For the last 21+ years, I have received several promotions and now reside as the senior administrative manager and serve as our accounting, finance and budget administrator for the now joined Office of Admissions and Student Affairs. We are always evolving and growing in this department. My duties include managing over 100 MMS scholarship accounts, accounts payables, purchasing, travel and expense reimbursements, and yearly budget planning, just to name a few. Behind the scenes, I also help with the contract process and orders for all student events in OASA. I also act as the liaison with our Student Health Clinic. People often refer to me as a point person for contacts throughout the University for a wide range of administrative processes.
What are you most proud of accomplishing?
I have always been goal-oriented, and I have managed to exceed them farther than I ever imaged at the time. But my proudest accomplishments would be the ones who call me MOM and NENE. I feel I am an example to our four children and eight grandchildren that with good work ethics, you can still manage to also be a full-time wife and mom in your family.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
The work is always evolving and changing, I get to learn the new processes along the way and excel professionally. Watching our students evolve into young medical doctors from start to graduation makes me feel up-to-date in the world. Then continuing to follow their journeys well after their residency and know that our team was a part of their success.
Why have you stayed?
Our University is resilient, and so are the people. The team I have been afforded to work with comes from all walks of life and make you feel a strong sense of belonging to something better. Not to mention, as a state institution, we have some pretty incredible benefits. I was given a chance some 21+ years ago, and I must have made a difference, or I wouldn’t still be here. Along with the many friendships that have been bestowed upon me and that I am eligible for retirement, I just can’t leave them behind, not yet!
When you are not at work, how do you spend your time?
I enjoy spending time with my high school sweetheart and husband of 24 years; along with our two fur-babies, as we are now empty-nesters. Our four children and their families are a true blessing to keep up with. I also enjoy all true crime TV and envision being a detective in another life.