The Dean of the Duke University School of Nursing, Vincent Guilamo-Ramos, PhD, MPH, LCSW, RN, ANP-BC, PMHNP-BC, FAAN has been appointed to serve on the board of directors of UnidosUS. The nonpartisan and nonprofit organization was founded in 1968 to challenge the social, economic and political barriers that affect Latinos through a unique combination of research, advocacy, programs, and a network of nearly 300 community-based organizations across the United States and Puerto Rico. 

“It is an honor to be asked to join the board of directors for UnidosUS, an organization with an outstanding history of advocacy for improving the health and social welfare of Latinx people,” said Dean Ramos. “I especially look forward to this opportunity to lead efforts to address reducing health inequities and Latinx harmful social determinants of health as they impact communities.” 

Dean Ramos was among four new appointees to the board, including the Executive Director of the Mexican American Council, Edward C. Garza, Executive Director of Project BRAVO, Laura Ponce, and the Head of Emerging Business & Broadcast Operations Latin America for Sony Pictures Entertainment, Francisco Rivera.

"We are thrilled to have the insight and expertise of these new Board members to guide our mission of creating greater opportunities for Hispanics," said Janet Murguía, President, and CEO of UnidosUS, expressing her excitement about the recent appointments.

Luis Granados, Chair of UnidosUS's Board, echoed the sentiment, stating, "We are fortunate to have the talent, skills, and thought-partnership of these experts on the UnidosUS Board during a pivotal time for the organization and the Latino community."

The Bessie Baker Distinguished Professor at the Duke University School of Nursing and director of the Center for Latino Adolescent and Family Health (CLAFH), Dean Guilamo-Ramos’ extensive research explores the role of families in promoting adolescent and young adult health while addressing the impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) on health inequities. Dr. Guilamo-Ramos' is unwavering in his dedication to public health. He serves on the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS, the CDC/HRSA Advisory Committee on HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STD Prevention and Treatment, and the boards of Power to Decide, Latino Commission on AIDS, and HIV Medicine Association, among others. 

UnidosUS's Board is a 25-member body representing UnidosUS Affiliates, elected officials, the corporate sector, and partner organizations. The appointment was announced during the opening of the UnidosUS Annual Conference, held this year in Chicago, IL, from July 22-24. The conference serves as the largest gathering of Latino advocates, community and business leaders, young advocates, and allies from across the country.