Millennium Magazine_6th Ed

185 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine LEONELLA RITA NAVARRETE PRESIDENT (RETIRED) Friends of the New Mexico Fisher House Albuquerque, NM homes where military and veteran’s families can stay, free of charge, while a loved one is in the hospital. Growing from a team of four to 14 board members, Ms. Navarrete has been involved with the foundation since its fruition. She was present to feed the first family gaining housing through the foundation’s efforts, which she calls her life’s greatest achievement. Notably, Ms. Navarrete received a Certificate of Recognition from former President Barack Obama and his family in 2016, as well as a Certificate of Recognition from Bill Richardson, the 30th Governor of New Mexico. She attributes her success to determination and a fulfillment in knowing her parents would be incredibly proud of her endeavors. With a strong base for integrity, a focus on the mission and remaining abreast and invested in her work is essential in Ms. Navarrete’s professional career. She received a Certificate of Completion in personnel management from Central New Mexico Community College, and previously worked as National President for the American Legion Auxiliary from 2009 to 2010, with involvement in the group since 1970. Additionally, she was an administrative officer for the U.S. Department of Agriculture for 36 years, which led her to a strong belief in rules, regulation, moral conduct and values. Ms. Navarrete is a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Foundation, Hispanic Cultural Center and the Otaro-Garcia-Navarrete Post 72 family. Looking ahead, she hopes to serve as an example to her great-grandchildren and watch the new generations of proud Americans pay their respect to the country’s bravest through kindness and service. Ms. Navarrete’s advice to aspiring professionals of all endeavors, but especially those in service, is to be grounded in your faith as spiritual guidance aids in living a balanced life. F ollowing a career in government operations, Leonella Rita Navarrete now serves as the President of Friends of the New Mexico Fisher House and sits as chair of the board and lead veteran advocate for the foundation since 2015. Supporting military and war veterans worldwide, the Fisher House Foundation builds comfort GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY