Saturday, November 14, 2026
Family, friends, former colleagues and community members came together at Eisenhower Park on Oct. 24 for the second annual Jaclyn M. Ramirez Memorial 5K Walk/Run, honoring the life and legacy of a beloved East Meadow High School teacher, coach and alumna.
The event brought runners and walkers together to celebrate Ramirez’s lasting impact on the East Meadow community while raising funds for the Jaclyn Marie Ramirez Memorial Scholarship, which supports two graduating East Meadow High School seniors each year.
The morning included a fun run at 8:30 a.m., followed by the 5K at 9 a.m. near Field 2 at Eisenhower Park. The annual event offers an opportunity for those who knew Ramirez, as well as community members who never had the chance to meet her, to support a cause that reflects her commitment to education and helping others.
Known affectionately as Jackie, Ramirez grew up in East Meadow and graduated from East Meadow High School in 2003, where she distinguished herself as a scholar-athlete. She earned all-state recognition in soccer, track and lacrosse, and her accomplishments remain commemorated on the school's Wall of Fame.
After pursuing a career in education, Ramirez returned to her alma mater in 2013 as an English as a New Language teacher. She also coached athletics, continuing her involvement in the school community that had helped shape her own life.
Ramirez died in December 2024 at 39.
East Meadow High School Athletic Director Rachel Barry, who has worked in the district for 14 years, told the Herald about the importance of preserving Ramirez's legacy through the annual event.
“I think it is vital for this community as a whole to continue to support her name, knowing that her family is continuing to support the community she grew up in and taught in,” Barry said.
Its inaugural year brought together family, friends and former colleagues despite forecasts of heavy rain, laying the foundation for what organizers hope will become a lasting community tradition.
Ramirez's mother, Vera Margarita, has expressed her commitment to growing the scholarship fund to ensure that two graduating seniors continue receiving awards each year, with the possibility of increasing the awards in the future.
The scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate resilience, compassion and a commitment to making a difference — qualities that reflect the values Ramirez brought to her work as an educator and her relationships throughout the community.
Local businesses, organizations and individual donors have also contributed to the effort through sponsorships, refreshments, raffle prizes and other support.
For Barry, the memorial 5K represents more than a race. It provides an opportunity for students and residents to learn about Ramirez's contributions while supporting the next generation of East Meadow graduates.
Through the annual gathering and the scholarships awarded in her name, Ramirez's legacy continues to connect the community she called home with the students whose futures she would have wanted to help shape.
