Sacramento Hospital Event Manager's Education Played An Invaluable Role

First opened in 1997, Shriners Hospital of Northern California has been serving Sacramento and its surrounding communities not only by providing a center for excellent pediatric burn care (the premise on which it was first founded), but by being a source for medical care that encompasses all disciplines.

A good chunk of funding for the Shriners network of hospitals comes from philanthropic individuals in the surrounding community whom oftentimes throw events to raise more money than they could on their own. As special events coordinator for Shriners Hospital of Northern California, Joseph Ramos makes sure that events thrown on the hospital's behalf are organized and run as smoothly as possible. Additionally, Joseph assists and coordinates any other events the hospital may have.

What does your job entail?

"I work with people in the community that want to give back to the hospital by way of fundraising. I help them plan, execute and coordinate their events, as well as making sure that our message is succinct and clear to the public. I also assist with all hospital-related events including donor ceremonies, corporate guest activities and internal campaigns."

What parts of your job do you enjoy most?

"I wake up every day and work with amazing individuals who want to positively impact our patients and pediatric programs. People who want to make a difference are my primary audience, and they are awesome. Every moment of my day is different, and with a new week brings on new tasks, challenges and opportunities to stretch my creative mind. There is never a dull moment. I advocate for the most adorable and resilient children. It doesn't feel like work."

What was your education history like?

"Before I came aboard at Shriners, I had a Bachelor of Arts in organizational communication from Sacramento State University. I had recently completed my Master's of Business Administration through the University of Phoenix a few months before coming aboard at the hospital. "

Has your education helped in your line of work?

"Without question, my education played a role preparing me for this position. The events coordinator role requires a degree in communications or business administration. Possessing a degree in both fields has been invaluable not only in my knowledge of specific areas, but also in execution of events, working with people and so much more."

Any advice for someone wanting to pursue a similar career?

"In my line of work, it is important to care about your cause. A long day is always better when you know you've helped to a make a difference in something that you care about."

Paulo Acoba is a California native raised in the Bay Area and living in the Central Valley. He enjoys distance running, cycling and grassroots motorsports. He holds a degree in management from the University of California Merced. Paulo has been writing for Examiner.com since 2012 and covering the Fresno area.