“I rolled up my sleeves and went all in.”

That’s how Sandra Murphy Ramiro describes more than four decades of service with the American Red Cross Guam Chapter.

And now, 43 years later, one of Guam’s longest-serving humanitarian leaders is retiring.

Sandra joined the organization in 1983, starting as a secretary and rising through the ranks to deputy executive officer, overseeing all business operations for the Guam chapter.

Through leadership changes and major disasters, she remained a steady voice throughout each transition, supporting families in crisis, coordinating military programs, and strengthening the island’s volunteer network.

During Typhoon Mawar, she was a key leader in the response efforts, helping mobilize over 300 workers, delivering meals, and supporting over thousands of residents across the island.

And her impact wasn’t just felt in times of disaster.

She also founded the Red Ball Gala, one of Guam’s largest and most successful non-profit fund-raising events.

Affectionately known to many as the heart of the Guam chapter, Sandra was honored by the Office of the Governor of Guam today.

Governor Lou Leon Guerrero called it a career defined by selflessness, uplifting the Red Cross mission to support the People of Guam in times of need.

“The work that you have done, Sandy, and the work that needs to continue on is going to be there forever,” said Governor Leon Guerrero. “I just want to say thank you on behalf of the People of Guam. We very much appreciate it. We will certainly miss you, but if you want to continue doing more public volunteer services, you’re certainly very welcome!”

Lieutenant Governor Joshua Tenorio added the Red Cross has thrived because of people like her who have stood firm in the face of uncertainty, ensuring that no one is left behind when disaster strikes.

“Not many people these days stay in organizations that long, which means that you’re very dedicated and you love what you do. I just want to thank you very much for being you and for helping the People of Guam,” said Lt. Gov. Tenorio. “Without the people that are behind the scenes connecting the dots, the front line doesn’t have the support or the direction that they need to be able to provide the support that people need.”

As a longtime Red Cross board member, First Gentleman Jeff Cook reflected on working with Sandra for the past four decades.

“Sandy’s been the glue that keeps the Red Cross together,” said Cook. “Sandy’s been the one there as we’ve changed execs over the years, been the solid force that keeps the volunteers together, keeps the people that train the volunteers together.”

“We’re very proud of her and it’s been a great run,” added Cook.

But for Sandra, she says the reason she's stayed with the organization all these years comes down to the people and the shared commitment she saw in Guam’s network of support.

“It was always about how we can move the mission forward. What I've been taught and carried through by my parents is that when you treat people with respect and value what they can bring to the table, a lot of work can get done,” said Ramiro.

She adds that leading with empathy, putting herself in other people’s shoes, helped her innovate ways to serve.

From glittering galas to wading through flooded streets to deliver aid after yet another storm.

“You are what moved me to do what I did for the last 43 years. Thank you,” added Ramiro.