Jimenez Hired for Community Development

Date:  Oct. 14, 1997
Editor: D'Lyn Ford  (505) 646-6528, dlford@nmsu.edu

LAS CRUCES -- Silvia Jimenez began work Sept. 10 for New Mexico State University's Cooperative Extension Service as the program coordinator for community development in Doña Ana County.

Jimenez, a Juarez native, will help develop 4-H and public health programs. She also will focus on international community development of African and Latin American countries.

Jimenez is currently working to establish a 4-H program in the Sunland Park schools. She recently helped host a tour of the program for Venezuelan officials.

"I want to develop a working relationship between Mexico and New Mexico," she said. "Leaders in Chihuahua, Mexico want to implement a 4-H program, and they will be looking to our Sunland Park model for ideas."

Jimenez received her bachelor's degree in social work in May 1997 from NMSU. During college, she was a member of the Student Association of Social Work and she gained experience working with the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program in Doña Ana County. The program teaches low-income families how to safely handle foods and prepare nutritious meals.