University of Phoenix Showcases the Life of a Healthcare Professional, Parent and Caretaker in Pursuit of
Higher Education and Career Success to Achieve His American Dream
Carlos Ramirez’s education and career outcomes are focal point of new University brand campaign
The New Year brings new opportunities for University of Phoenix to serve American working adults around the world who are
determined to accomplish their higher education goals and pursue careers in their chosen field of interest. Today, the University
celebrates its students and alumni by showcasing one alumnus in the University’s next brand campaign launching this week, who has
demonstrated the dedication and perseverance it takes as a working adult, parent and caretaker to achieve successful education and
career outcomes – Carlos Ramirez.
“Working adults are the backbone of this country, and at University of Phoenix we understand that when we help them succeed as
students, we help the country succeed at large,” said Timothy P. Slottow, president of University of Phoenix. “By offering
career-relevant higher education, we help Americans gain needed skills, enhance their career or even start a new business. When
they earn their degree, they not only change their prospects in life, but change the life of the family they support and the
children who look up to them as role models. Carlos Ramirez’s story truly represents the same spirit you see in the thousands of
students we serve. His accomplishments are a testament to his unyielding drive. It’s the same drive that so many of our students
show as they strive to advance themselves, their families and their communities. It’s the drive that powers the American
dream.”
Ramirez was born in Mexicali, Mexico. At age 15, his family of six moved to the United States, seeking a better life. As the
oldest child, Ramirez was often left in charge of his three siblings while his parents worked long hours. Far from being daunted or
discouraged, he rose to the challenge, caring for his younger siblings and learning compassion and the power of leadership. Ramirez
also helped his family by working odd jobs, including working in local fields and at fast food restaurants, developing a strong
work ethic. As he quickly assimilated to his new environment, he further developed his charisma and built strong relationships.
Within two years of finishing high school, Ramirez was studying nursing at his local community college and was hired at El
Centro Regional Medical Center as an emergency department aide while finishing his nursing degree. As his career progressed, he
realized he needed to go back to school to sharpen and enhance his nursing skills. He enrolled at University of Phoenix, completed
his Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing degrees and is a student today, pursuing a doctoral degree in healthcare
administration.
“My University of Phoenix education has helped me enhance my nursing skills as well as my leadership and management abilities in
healthcare administration,” said Ramirez, executive director of AccentCare, a national leader in post-acute home healthcare
services, providing comprehensive care, guidance and support for a wide variety of needs. “And my achievements in life go far
beyond my education and career. Being one of four siblings, a husband and father of three, I have successfully encouraged family
members to pursue their education and career goals. Plus, as a healthcare provider and educator in a local area that has a high
demand for professionals with similar backgrounds, I have the opportunity to change lives in my community on a daily basis by
helping guide future healthcare providers in their careers and providing care to those who need it most.”
University of Phoenix has specialized in serving a diverse group of students including working adults and parents since its
founding more than 40 years ago. Through its ongoing work to provide resources tailored to these students, and courses aligned with
the industry skills and competencies modern employers are looking for, the University has continued to evolve with the needs of its
students. Recently released data about University of Phoenix students from the 2015 Academic Annual Report, shows that 76 percent work while earning degrees, 67
percent have dependents at home, 45 percent are underrepresented minorities and 60 percent are first-generation college
students.
For more information about University of Phoenix programs, including on-time completion rates, the median debt incurred by
students who completed the program and other important information, please visit phoenix.edu/programs/gainful-employment.
About University of Phoenix®
University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help working adults move efficiently from education to careers in a rapidly
changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant and engaging courses, and interactive learning can help students more effectively
pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. As a subsidiary of Apollo Education Group, Inc.
(Nasdaq: APOL), University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate, bachelor’s, master’s and
doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world. For more
information, visit phoenix.edu.
University of Phoenix
Heather McLaughlin, 714-338-6429
heather.mclaughlin@apollo.edu
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