10 Things About Adrianna O’Donnell & San Ysidro Health

“If you are not learning, then you’re not growing.”

San Ysidro Health (SYHealth) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing high-quality, equitable, and accessible care and supportive services to the culturally diverse and traditionally underserved population of San Diego County. As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), SYHealth offers medical, dental, and behavioral health services to over 161,000 of San Diego’s most vulnerable residents, enhancing the health and well-being of the communities it serves. Adrianna (Ramirez) O’Donnell is the Director of Philanthropy for San Ysidro Health.

#1 I was born in Tocaima, Colombia, and immigrated to Connecticut with my family when I was four years old.

#2 My husband served in the US Navy for 26 years. During two of his deployments, I had the opportunity to visit Singapore, which has become one of our favorite places in the world.

#3 I would like to take my family to Colombia. They have never been, and I want to reconnect with my extended family there. The last time I visited was when I was ten years old, but the memories are vivid.

#4 I love to read. It has been my favorite way to decompress since I can remember – I get lost in stories and enjoy learning as much as I can.

#5 Favorite movie: “A Bronx Tale” – it is a love story and so much more.

#6 I share my home with four cats – Vinny, Colt, Iggy, and Birdie – along with my husband and two daughters. We recently lost our beloved dogs, Lincoln & Benito, but I like to think they still visit us.

#7 My career has led to incredible experiences, from fundraising in Portugal at their first Rock in Rio festival to collaborating on a national campaign for the Jack Nicholson movie “About Schmidt,” and relaunching a traveling specialty clinic for muscle disease patients throughout the Hawaiian Islands.

#8 Although I was not born and raised in San Diego, I feel a deep sense of belonging here. On my first day at San Ysidro Health, my colleagues pronounced my name correctly, which was profoundly emotional for me. This experience reinforced the importance of representation and inclusion, which is why giving back to the community is so important to me. Ensuring that everyone has a seat at the table will always be a priority.

#9 I believe everyone deserves quality healthcare, regardless of economic status, zip code, or background. I am passionate about our mission and proud that our leadership reflects the communities we serve.

#10 Funds raised through our “Emerald Ball” will benefit our pediatric services across San Diego County. Despite our growth and progress, the need for comprehensive and accessible healthcare for children – from prenatal to medical, dental, and behavioral health services – remains as pressing as ever.

San Ysidro Health
Emerald Ball
Saturday, August 10, 2024
Hilton San Diego Bayfront
www.syh.pub/health55