Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) Alum, Dehrian Ramirez currently holds the position of Lead Creative Graphic Designer at Studio J Lorne. A son of immigrants he grew up in Denver and attended Abraham Lincoln High School before embarking on a transformative educational journey at the University of Denver (DU). Dehrian’s first encounter with the DSF Future Center at Abraham Lincoln High School was when he saw his older brother spend time applying for college and scholarships and where the college seed was planted. With the help of his DSF College Advisor, DSF provided a safe space to explore college options with structures to apply for as many scholarships and colleges as possible.
Transitioning to DU as a DSF Scholar, Dehrian reflects on the profound impact of the DSF scholarship. It served as a crucial financial support, allowing him to experience life on campus without financial worries and facilitated a connection with DSF scholars who shared his journey. “The community you get to build around the scholarship is imperative; once you are connected to DSF, you are in a forever-growing network that builds with one another,” said Dehrian. Both of Dehrian’s brothers are also DSF alumni. His older brother set the path for Dehrian, and he in turn set the path for his younger brother.
Dehrian with brothers Gamaliel and Assael
At DU, Dehrian pursued a major in Business with a concentration in Real Estate and a minor in Digital Marketing, where he discovered his passion for creative work. As he reflects on his years after high school, he talks about the importance of going to college, where he was able to learn both soft and hard skills. Beyond academic pursuits, he highlights invaluable lessons cultivated during his college years, including teamwork, presentation abilities, and the art of networking. College became the canvas upon which he painted the beginning of his supportive community.
In his senior year, Dehrian explored digital marketing and design through an internship at the Latino Leadership Institute, where he was also hired after graduation. This experience and mentorship support led him to start a successful freelance career. Now, as the Lead Creative Designer at a local marketing firm, he continues to learn and expand his knowledge.
Dehrian with Studio J Lorne team
Reflecting on his journey, Dehrian expresses gratitude to the numerous supporters who stood by him during his college years and beyond. From a DSF Future Center student to a DSF Alum, Dehrian attributes much of his success to DSF, not just for making college possible for himself and other family members, but for equipping him with the skills to build a resilient network and thriving career.
