A former first lady of New Mexico, a selection as one of “100 Influentials” by Hispanic Business Magazine, a 2010 Spirit of Achievement award winner, and a leading advocate for arts in New Mexico: these are just a few of the accomplishments of Clara Apodaca, yet among her list of achievements she says her most important successes are her five children and 10 grandchildren.

Apodaca’s humbleness and generosity stem from the lessons learned from her mother, who taught her the importance of the arts and education and to be grateful to your community.

“My mother instilled in me the importance of valuing your community,” Apodaca says. “I’ve always enjoyed giving back to the community and firmly believe that when a community is good to you, you need to give back.”

Originally from Doña Ana, Apodaca’s family made the move to Las Cruces when she was in the third grade. She graduated from Las Cruces Union High School and went on to attend New Mexico State University from 1952-1955 where she majored in elementary education.

“Many of the educational values and work ethic I possess today come from the professors and experiences I had at NMSU,” Apodaca says. “I also was able, through the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, to improve my social life and create friendships that have lasted to this day.”

In 1975, while serving as First Lady of New Mexico, Apodaca decided to create an art gallery in the governor’s reception area. Only four months after the Apodaca administration began, Apodaca had created a successful exhibition by artist Georgia O’Keefe, who was the honored guest and helped produce the show. It was the first time visitors could explore the gallery, which is still in operation today.

“I felt strongly that arts and cultures should be available and accessible to all New Mexicans and tourists,” Apodaca says. “There used to be only one piece of art in the Capitol. Today, it’s like a museum.”

Apodaca served as a consultant for 18 years in Washington, D.C., working with the Clinton administration from 1993 to 2001 and from 1989 to 1993, she was general assistant to Chairman Ron Brown at the Democratic National Committee.

She returned to New Mexico in 2006 to head up the National Hispanic Cultural Center Foundation. As president and CEO, Clara leads the crucial fundraising efforts to support the program and construction needs of the National Hispanic Cultural Center.

In 2008, Apodaca was selected for “100 Influentials” by Hispanic Business Magazine and in 2010 received the New Mexico Spirit of Achievement Award from National Jewish Health for community service.

Apodaca serves on the board of directors of Think New Mexico and the New Mexico Women’s Forum. She also serves as chairman of her son’s foundation, the Jeff Apodaca Celebration of Life Foundation.