Born and raised in Mexico, Olivia Jaramillo’s journey has taken her from the front lines of the U.S. Air Force to the forefront of leadership and advocacy in Utah. A retired veteran, she served tours in Iraq, Europe, and on humanitarian missions in Africa during her 20 years of active duty. In 2016, Olivia made history as one of the first service members in the nation to legally change her name and gender marker while still on active duty — a moment that reflected both her courage and her commitment to living authentically.

Today, Olivia is a Social Psychology Researcher, Strategic Leadership Consultant, and Director of Public Outreach and Training at Equality Utah. Her work focuses on advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and building Common Ground Initiatives across sectors. She has collaborated with global corporations and local organizations alike — including Goldman Sachs, Qualtrics, Dominion Energy, VIVINT, Zions Bank, Adobe, and the Utah Jazz — to create inclusive workplace cultures and train leaders at every level.

Her influence extends far beyond boardrooms. Olivia serves as a Commissioner on the Salt Lake City Human Rights Commission and sits on the YWCA’s Public Policy Committee, where she helps shape initiatives to protect and empower marginalized communities. In 2020, she stepped into politics as a candidate, further underscoring her dedication to public service. Her efforts have earned wide recognition, including the 2023 Utah’s 40 Over 40 Women Making an Impact award.

A dynamic public speaker and community presence, Olivia has hosted Utah’s celebrated ALLIES Gala, sharing the stage with performers like Billy Porter, Eddie Izzard, and the Indigo Girls. She also co-hosts RadioActive POP on KRCL, where she continues to engage audiences in thoughtful, inclusive conversations.

Whether in uniform, at the podium, or in the classroom as a guest lecturer, Olivia brings the same energy: a belief that leadership means creating space for others to thrive. She now lives in Salt Lake City with her son, Oliver, where her personal and professional lives reflect her mission — to build a world where authenticity, equity, and opportunity are possible for all.