Empowered through Education: The Legacy of Dr. Ramon Resa

Dr. Ramon Resa started working in the fields of Central California when he was just two years old. As a child migrant farmworker, there was no time for play—his days were spent doing backbreaking labor to help his family survive. Growing up in poverty, he was constantly told that his dreams were out of reach. His guardians discouraged him from going to high school and flat-out forbade him from even considering college. But Dr. Resa refused to let others define his future. 

Determined to change the course of his life, he pushed past every barrier. He pursued an education, earned a medical degree, and dedicated his career to caring for children from farmworker families—kids who, like him, might believe success is out of reach. His story is one of resilience, perseverance, and the undeniable power of education to change lives. 

On December 14, 2019, Canal Alliance unveiled a mural titled Empowered Through Education, now permanently displayed in the entrance to its headquarters at 711 Grand Avenue in San Rafael Created by local San Rafael painters in collaboration with Italian mosaic artists, the mixed-media piece aims to inspire students and visitors to Canal Alliance for years to come. Dr. Resa himself attended the 2019 unveiling of the mural, sharing about his experiences and some of his other work, including his book, Out of the Fields, My Journey from Farmworker Boy to Pediatrician, and a documentary film, Ramón Rising, in which he is featured.  

A striking visual showcasing Dr. Resa’s journey and inspiring strength is a permanent part of the very walls of Canal Alliance, a tribute that serves as an ongoing reminder of what’s possible. It’s more than just a mural—it’s a symbol of hope and determination. 

“When people enter our building, I want them to feel that they can make it,” says Omar Carrera, CEO of Canal Alliance. “Dr. Resa’s personal story and experience tell us that. So, we capture that moment in time—that inspiration—for every single student, every single individual who walks into this building. No matter who told you that you cannot make it, you will. Here at Canal Alliance, we know that education can break the cycle of poverty and open doors to new opportunities.”