Tina Hite

Tina Hite is a dedicated advocate for adult education and underserved populations in the Land of Enchantment. Her extensive career, both inside and outside the classroom, has significantly shaped adult education in New Mexico and earned her the admiration and respect of her peers. Known as a visionary leader with boundless energy, Tina has a remarkable ability to think and act systemically while remaining deeply attuned to the perspectives of students and instructors. This balance allows her to implement lasting, impactful improvements.

Tina's natural leadership skills emerged as she catapulted from tutor and teacher to the role of Director of the Adult Education Program at the University of New Mexico-Valencia's Adult Education Program and was elected as the President of the New Mexico Adult Education Association (NMAEA). In her current multifaceted roles, Tina coordinates professional development for adult educators across New Mexico as the Director of PropelNM.

Tina’s dedication to enhancing adult education was evident early in her career. Since 1999, she has been a trailblazer in integrating technology into instruction with a goal of promoting "techquity." She has presented extensively on the subject. Continually committed to fostering quality professional development, she has collaborated with esteemed colleagues like Judy Hofer and Will Grant on Foundations for Teachers, and facilitated Project IDEAL courses on distance learning and learner persistence. She has delivered numerous workshops including Training from the Back of the Room. Tina also spearheaded the Accelerated College and Career Education (ACCE) project, providing crucial support to individuals receiving Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) who are pursuing a high school equivalency credential. Her leadership in these initiatives continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many.

Her passion for coaching emerged after completing College Coaching training at Central New Mexico Community College in 2014. To further refine her skills, she earned her LifeBound Coaching Training certification in 2017. Today, she applies her coaching expertise to support educators and students alike.

Tina resides in Bosque Farms with her husband, along with their beloved dog and cat. She treasures time with her children and grandchildren and can often be found enthusiastically cheering them on at sporting events, concerts, and cheerleading competitions.

Peggy Garcia-Marquez

She/Her/Hers

A gifted storyteller and charismatic public speaker, Peggy Garcia-Marquez captivates audiences. The granddaughter of migrant farm workers and a first generation high school and college graduate, Peggy's career in adult education student support and community college administration was shaped by her own struggles in navigating the often hidden complexities of the higher education system. Determined to set an example for her two young daughters, Peggy earned a Master of Arts Degree in Organizational Learning Sciences from the University of New Mexico. Her journey drives her belief that authentic coaching is essential for supporting students of all backgrounds, abilities and circumstances in accessing and succeeding in their educational and career pursuits.

Combining her passion for coaching and teaching, Peggy helped build Central New Mexico Community College's nationally renowned Coach Training Program. Since 2010, she has facilitated coach training for over 3000 professionals in 38 states. Her dedication and expertise earned her a reputation as a respected subject matter expert, sought-after speaker, creative instructional designer, dynamic facilitator and knowledgeable consultant. Peggy's professional credentials have included IAC Coach Masteries Practitioner, CNM Financial Coach, ICF-Trained Coach and CCE Board Certified Life Coach.

Over the years, Peggy has earned numerous awards and certifications and managed many impactful program initiatives, yet she always returns to her first love: coaching. After retiring from the University of New Mexico, she now designs, develops and facilitates professional learning opportunities for New Mexico Adult Education Association PropelNM.

Peggy is devoted to continuous learning and has recently developed a deep interest in studying the art of curanderismo, an indigenous, holistic, healing practice. She also enjoys exploring her family's genealogy with a focus on unique, personal stories. Peggy cherishes time enjoying nature with her husband, two daughters and son-in law. Most especially, she embraces her beloved role of Nana to her two young grandsons.

Allison Lucero

Allison’s journey in adult education began as a student employee and tutor at the University of New Mexico-Valencia, where she quickly discovered her passion for supporting individuals pursuing their high school equivalency. This devotion became her lifelong career. After nearly two decades of dedicated service at the UNM-Valencia program, Allison remains committed to ensuring every student receives a strong start and continuous support throughout their educational journey.

Throughout her career, Allison has held various roles at both program and statewide levels, including Tutor, Instructor, and Training Specialist. With a natural ability to see the big picture and design effective processes, she has made significant contributions to teams focused on advancing staff professionalism and promoting student achievement. A dedicated lifelong learner, Allison eagerly pursues professional growth opportunities, gaining expertise in Motivational Coaching, Training from the Back of the Room, Teaching Skills that Matter, PowerPath, and actively participating in the C3 and Career Pathways initiatives.

Her coaching journey began just over a decade ago when she earned a College Coaching certificate from Central New Mexico Community College. More recently, she achieved the prestigious International Association of Coaching Masteries Practitioner certification. Today, Allison shares her knowledge and experience by developing curriculum and facilitating courses for adult education professionals through NMAEA’s PropelNM.

A proud lifelong New Mexico resident, Allison enjoys the tranquility of country living. She treasures her time with her daughter and three grandsons, often spending her free moments creating lasting memories with them.

Cash Clifton

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