1st runner-up: Angela Ramirez

Angela Ramirez impressed contest judges with her self-assured and well-spoken manner.

One judge described the attractive 27-year-old San Antonio native as “cultured,” while others were impressed with her education, community service and professional accomplishments.

Such a combination of beauty and brains earned Angela the position of first runner-up in Conexión’s Hottest Latina Contest 2009.

Angela has completed two marathons, studied abroad in Spain and earned a degree in international business from the University of Texas at San Antonio. She also volunteers with Junior Achievement and works as a brand director at the IT company PEER 1, where she is one of a few women working in a male-dominated industry.

“You have to learn how to put your business face on first so people learn to respect you. You never want to be judged on your looks,” Angela wrote in her contest entry form.

2nd runner-up: Mary Ramon

Mary Ramon’s intelligence, good looks and outgoing demeanor impressed our contest judges, who described her as an outstanding role model for young women.

“She’s very dignified,” one judge said.

“A motivated, strong Latina,” is how one judge described Mary, who ranked as second runner-up in Conexión’s Hottest Latina Contest 2009.

The 25-year-old San Antonio native likes to dance, spend time with her family and give back to her community. Mary is a full-time graduate student at UTSA majoring in community counseling. She’s also a full-time city employee working with at-risk youth. Her goals include earning a doctorate’s degree so she can be a counselor.

“Learning the art of helping others work through their problems and bringing them toward solutions is a rewarding profession I can’t wait to be a part of,” Mary wrote in her contest entry form.