January Newsletter
January brings a new year and new possibilities at Santa Fe Community College (SFCC). This month, we are proud to celebrate SFCC alumna, State Senator Cindy Nava, and her inspiring journey toward finding her voice and serving others.
Education That Shapes Leaders:
SFCC Alumna Cindy Nava’s Journey to the State Senate
Meet Senator Cindy Nava and discover how her time at SFCC shaped her path in public service.
State Senator Cindy Nava is a powerful voice for New Mexicans, and her journey to leadership began at Santa Fe Community College (SFCC). Looking back on her path, she says, “I could not have done it without SFCC.”
When Cindy first began her studies at SFCC, she was nervous and unsure about being her true self. As an undocumented immigrant at the time, her lived experience had taught her to keep her personality at a minimum and avoid drawing too much attention.
As she met mentors and student groups who advocated for her potential, Cindy slowly began to feel more confident. “There were advocates who were much louder than I was,” she says. “I felt empowered and learned the power of my voice.”
She turned that empowerment into action, building her leadership skills as president of the Student Government Association. This served as her first platform to help fellow students and improve the college experience for everyone. Through SFCC, she found the assistance to keep going and the encouragement to push through the hardest times.
Today, she is standing tall as a leader. She has made it her mission to elevate the voices in New Mexico who are underserved, underrepresented, and in need of the same support once received.
She is deeply passionate about breaking down barriers and helping people live the “New Mexico Dream,” a reimagined American Dream that reflects the needs of New Mexicans and creates opportunities for a fulfilling and beautiful life.
As a New Mexico State Senator, her presence serves as a powerful reminder of what is possible. Her career has led her to meet historic milestones and she is far from finished. Everything Cindy has achieved since then has come straight from her heart, and we are proud to have been part of her story.
Upcoming Events
January 20
First Day of the SFCC Spring Semester
January 20
First Day of the New Mexico Legislative Session
January 26
Legislative Reception
Join SFCCF at an event where local businesses, policymakers, and community partners come together to connect during Legislative Session.
Thank you for continuing to support our students as we begin a new year. With the support of donors like you, students can find their voice, build confidence, and reach new heights.
Kelly A. Marquez, MBA
Executive Director
kelly.marquez@sfcc.edu
