OAS | NOVEMBER 2023

An introduction From OAS’s New Instructional Coordinator, Chinara Lucero:

“Growing up in New Mexico, my life was enriched because of all the different stories and cultures that inhabit the Southwest. I grew up exploring the New Mexico landscape, visiting pueblos, observing rock art and fossils, cleaning pottery and embracing New Mexican food and culture. I learned how important the Rio Grande is to my home and to the indigenous people who have lived here since the beginning. Although I was young, a seed was planted in me which shaped my future in academics and the path which I have chosen to pursue today. I began my career as a Field Archaeologist, but I soon found that my greatest love was educating others by connecting archaeology with storytelling.

I became an Interpretive Ranger working for the National Park Service, New Mexico Historic Sites museums, the US Forest Service and most recently Wonders on Wheels traveling museum. I’ve created and implemented educational programs, tours, hands-on activities, visual aids and web based programs to diverse communities of all ages and sizes. I have written content for permanent educational signs and been a mentor who helped train other educators, as well. I received awards for my service with Glacier National Park and again from Mount Shasta-Trinity Forest Service. Continuing my career with OAS will allow me to continue to follow a path that educates, preserves and shares the stories of those that stood before us and the history of our surrounding landscape. This is important because it is our history that has helped shape our identity as a people today and will, in turn, shape those of tomorrow.

I currently reside in Albuquerque with my husband Ben and dog Finnegan. During my downtime you can usually find me on a trail hiking with them or doing yoga. I look forward to working with OAS and getting out into the community.”

Welcome, Chinara!

OAS continues to fundraise for its education programs and research activities. To make a donation, please contact Lauren Paige at 505.982.2282, or lauren@museumfoundation.org.