Posted on May 15, 2026 by Anastasia Cisneros-Lunsford
Graduating summa cum laude, U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant Christian Ramirez is earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in cybersecurity at UT San Antonio’s College of AI, Cyber and Computing, where he strengthened his commitment to the field as one of the first recipients of the Department of War Cyber Service Academy Retention Scholarship.
Currently on active duty, Ramirez was among the first recipients of the retention scholarship, which provides professional development to civilian and military personnel already in the cyber workforce. The scholarship also helps retain top talent and enhances their skills to meet evolving cybersecurity demands.
"(This degree) allows me to continue developing the technical and analytical skills required for cyber operations," Ramirez said.
Born in San Antonio, Ramirez grew up in the Azores near Portugal and in Ewa Beach, Hawaii, where his father's Air Force service took him. His father also earned a bachelor's degree while in the Air Force, which influenced Ramirez to pursue his own path toward higher education. Since he is already in an established career field, Ramirez focused on academic performance and professional growth at UT San Antonio.
"My experience at UT San Antonio has been refreshing, as I genuinely enjoy learning," he said. "I fully committed myself to my studies, consistently making the President’s List or Dean’s List each semester, and I am also graduating summa cum laude, which is a significant personal achievement."
Ramirez characterizes himself as driven, adaptable, and committed to continuous improvement. At his core is a simple commitment. "I strive to perform at a high level in everything I do while also prioritizing my role as a supportive partner, son, brother, fiancé and uncle within a strong and encouraging family."
Outside of school, he volunteers at the Saddle Light Center, a therapeutic equestrian center serving people with disabilities of all ages in the San Antonio area. He assists his fiancée, Victoria Soriano, a UT San Antonio alumna with a Master of Accountancy, who serves as the center's volunteer lead.
For incoming freshmen, Ramirez offers some straightforward advice:
"If you choose to be here, fully commit," he advises. "Discipline is not something you are born with; it must be developed and maintained."
One powerful lesson Ramirez has learned as an airman and UT San Antonio student is that real achievement isn't just about talent or opportunity, but about the habits you build every day.
"Success in college, and in any path, requires consistent effort, accountability, and the willingness to follow through on what you start," he said.
Ramirez plans to continue his education after receiving his Bachelor of Business Administration in cybersecurity.
— Anastasia Cisneros-Lunsford
