Enjoy your association news anytime, anywhere. Scan the QR code to visit our online publication to stay up to date on the latest association news, share articles and read past issues. new-mexico-bankersdigest.thenewslinkgroup.org He also helped the state navigate several budget downturns, including the 2009 crisis. Michelle remembered Smith fondly. “Sen. Smith was committed to fiscal responsibility while consistently aiming to improve quality of life for all New Mexicans,” she said in a statement. John, above all, was a sensible lawmaker who was able to work with colleagues from both parties. For instance, he teamed up with fellow Democrat Doreen Gallegos to pass legislation creating a state early childhood trust fund, which has exploded in size since its creation — from $300 million in 2020 to a projected $9.8 billion at the end of the current budget year. He also worked with Republicans in 2016 to craft a compromise to bring New Mexico into compliance with the federal Real ID law. “Sen. Smith’s lifetime of dedication to New Mexico leaves a legacy that will continue to benefit our communities for generations to come,” said Gov. Grisham. Former Deming House Representative Dona Irwin Passes Away In October, former Deming Rep. Dona Irwin, a conservative Democrat, passed away at the age of 92. Irwin served in the New Mexico Legislature for 18 years, representing Grant, Hidalgo and Luna counties from 1999 to 2017. Dona also was employed by First New Mexico Bank in Deming for a number of years. Former Democratic Rep. Candie Sweetser, who succeeded Dona when she retired, said Dona was beloved in Santa Fe “because her loyalty was to the people in her district, not to a political party. Dona often said about herself, ‘What you see is what you get.’ She meant she had no hidden agendas — political or otherwise — and prided herself on transparency and openness,” Candie said. Dona was skilled in connecting agricultural heritage with educational opportunities and also worked tirelessly to bring healthy meals and gardens to senior centers in rural areas. Gov. Michelle Lujan-Grisham remembered Dona fondly: “Dona was a stalwart advocate for New Mexico’s children, families and rural communities. She embodied strength in everything she did. Her visionary leadership improved the lives of so many in our state, and her legacy will live on through the lives she touched.” 25
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