John Jaramillo’s life journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and a passion for community building. Born in the picturesque Sangre De Cristo Mountains of Chamisal, New Mexico, John’s early years were shaped by the rugged beauty of his surroundings and the warmth of his large family. His childhood love for hiking in the hills and mountains foreshadowed a life of adventure and exploration that would take him far beyond his humble beginnings.
Relocating to Colorado at a young age, John’s path took an unexpected turn when he joined the U.S. Navy straight out of high school. This decision marked the beginning of a transformative 20-year journey that would see him traverse the globe, gaining invaluable life experiences and a world-class education. Despite initial academic struggles, John’s time in the Navy fostered a deep appreciation for learning, culminating in a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Chapman University. This period of his life, rich with stories best shared around dinner tables and campfires, laid the foundation for his future leadership roles.
Post-retirement, John embraced perhaps his most challenging and rewarding role yet – that of a single father to his son, Drue. With unwavering dedication, he created a nurturing environment that prioritized education, mental and physical discipline, and family values. The fruits of his labor are evident in Drue’s academic success at Johns Hopkins University, where he is set to graduate with a double major in Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Pure Math, and a minor in Financial Economics. Today, John channels his diverse experiences and leadership skills into his role as President and Co-Founder of the Hispanic Restaurant Association (HRA). Alongside Chief of Operations Selene Nestor, John has steered the HRA to unprecedented heights since its establishment in March 2021. Under his guidance, the organization has achieved numerous groundbreaking milestones, including establishing the nation’s first Hispanic Restaurant Week, creating the Hispanic Chefs Association, and launching the world’s first Latin Food Guide – the Quetzales Guide. These achievements not only showcase John’s visionary leadership but also highlight his commitment to elevating Hispanic cuisine and supporting the culinary community. John Jaramillo’s journey from the mountains of New Mexico to the helm of a groundbreaking culinary organization is a compelling narrative of resilience, dedication, and the transformative power of embracing new challenges. His forward-looking attitude and commitment to shaping the culinary world for the better continue to inspire and create positive change in the industry and beyond.
