Mary Homan, past GSNMT Board Chair inducted Governor Susana Martinez, and State Park staff Christy Tafoya and Sarah Wood into the GSNMT Honorary Troop.  The Honorary Troop consists of community leaders who believe in and support the Girl Scout program.

Christy Tafoya and Sarah Wood reflected on how their years in Girl Scouting gave them leadership skills that they use in their professional work with the State Park. 

Governor Susana Martinez recalled her own Girl Scout memories.  Governor Martinez is the first Hispanic female governor in the United States and the first female Governor in New Mexico.  She shared that she takes her position in government seriously, acknowledging the influence that she has on younger generations, hoping to encourage youth to consider becoming leaders who aim to exceed her accomplishments. 

Governor Martinez and GSNMT CEO Peggy Sanchez Mills then awarded the latest Awardees:  Bronze Awardees from troop 171 Santa Fe, Gold Awardee Stephanie Sugars from Albuquerque, and Gold Awardee Lauren Marcus from Los Alamos. 

State Park Director, Tommy Mutz shared that “The historic lodge at Hyde Memorial State Park served as the area Girl Scout Lodge for many years and was the perfect background for this special day, honoring the leadership of the Girl Scouts in our state.”  We are fortunate to have the opportunity to continue making new friends and memories at this Lodge, now affectionately known by many as the "Old Girl Scout Lodge." 

Youth Board Member Sonya Swarts shared, "Juliette Low once shared:  “Scouting rises within you and inspires you to put forth your best.”  As Girl Scouts, many of us also aspire to become leaders in our communities and to us, you are an inspiration.  Thank you!"  

Girl Scouting has a lengthy and notable history in New Mexico, the first Girl Scout Troop west of the Mississippi was in Santa Fe and included girls from Los Alamos.