With the anticipation of the mayoral race in 2022, informed voter turnout was paramount.
Traditionally, more men turn out to vote than women, and in January that year, this imbalance sparked an idea in Sandra Borges. Women want a voice, but certain spaces can be intimidating, especially if one is unsure where to get solid information. Women for a Better Artesia was the solution. Quarterly meetings were the platform to present unbiased information on local elections so that voters could make an informed choice.
The first luncheon welcomed close to 50 women as speakers shared about the upcoming local election, and the committee knew a need was being met. Lunches promote civic engagement, feature a non-profit spotlight, and encourage self-care. Women hear updates from local government officials, community happenings, new developments, and activities in the coming months.
Meetings are also designed to make women feel valued. With charming table settings and unique prizes from local businesses, there are subtle reminders that every woman is special. We need reminders of our value and that caring for ourselves allows us to better care for others; we cannot pour from an empty cup.
Photo by Jess Addington Photography
In 2024, Women for a Better Artesia hosted the inaugural Artesia Women of Impact Awards, to honor and celebrate the outstanding contributions of women who significantly influence the well-being and development of our community. This initiative highlights the achievements and leadership of women who have gone above and beyond to create positive change while inspiring others.
The second annual event was held on May 15, 2025, at the Ocotillo Performing Arts Center. Women enjoyed a glamorous evening celebrating the important and often unnoticed work of the 2025 recipients (see pages 26–27).
Every one of us has a voice, a calling, and a work to do. If you are unsure what that is for you, Women for a Better Artesia is a great place to start! Connect, refresh, and feel inspired to move in the service of others.
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Established 2022
www.womenforartesianm.org
Whitney Baize
ATHLETICS
Whitney Baize is a tireless champion for Artesia’s youth. She serves her church, works as a beloved substitute teacher for Artesia Public Schools, and is the founder of both the Cross Country and Track Booster programs. Whitney rallies people together with passion and purpose—organizing fundraisers, planning team meals, and building a support system that lets young athletes know they are valued and seen.
In the classroom, she brings energy and warmth, ensuring students feel engaged and cared for. Whitney is the kind of person who shows up, steps in, and lifts others up. Her love for this community and its kids makes her a true Woman of Impact, touching lives in both big and small ways every single day.
Natasha Wilde
CREATIVE/ARTS
Natasha Wilde is a vibrant force for creativity in Artesia. A gifted artist and art educator, Natasha brings the joy of artistic expression to children, teens, and adults through her work at the Ocotillo Performing Arts Center and Artesia Public Library. She pours thoughtful planning and passion into every class, whether she’s guiding young painters or leading a teen sewing group.
Since arriving in Artesia, Natasha has immersed herself in the community, lending her talents to library outreach programs, serving as craft coordinator for Mom’s Life and helping create several local murals. Her innovative spirit constantly drives her to find new ways to make the arts more accessible and engaging.
Natasha’s creative vision is matched by her commitment to uplifting others. Through teaching, mentoring, and community art initiatives, she makes Artesia a more colorful, connected, and inspired place to live.
Jessica Bollema
COMMUNITY BUILDER
Jessica Bollema brings unmatched energy and heart to the Artesia community as the Assistant Director of the Chamber of Commerce. Whether coordinating a simple Lunch and Learn, or family birthday parties and gatherings, or even the Main Event Car Show and Balloons & Tunes Festival, Jessica is a driving force behind many of Artesia’s most beloved events.
Her dedication shines in every detail—from organization to implementation, she plans the whole thing with a contagious smile. Jessica has embraced Artesia as her own and has become a trusted leader and friend. She shows up, steps up, and puts others first, always aiming to make every event the best it can be.
Jessica’s love for Artesia is evident in her unwavering commitment to making the town a more connected, vibrant place. Her passion and positivity make her a Woman of Impact who inspires all those around her.
Jade Donaghe
COMMUNITY SAFETY
Jade Donaghe is the founder and lead instructor of ISR Artesia, where she teaches life-saving swimming techniques to infants and toddlers. Through Infant Swimming Resource lessons, Jade equips children with the skills needed to survive in water and develop strength and confidence as swimmers. Her passion for water safety goes beyond the pool—she is an advocate, using her social media presence and community outreach to spread awareness and educate families across Artesia and neighboring areas.
What sets Jade apart is her heart. She deeply cares not only for her own children but for all children in the community, and that care is evident in everything she does. Her dedication to one-on-one instruction ensures each child receives the focused attention necessary to master essential survival skills. Jade’s work has become a vital resource, filling an urgent need and making Artesia a safer place for our youngest residents.
Chanda Crandall
EDUCATION
Chanda Crandall is a proud third-generation educator with over 18 years of experience, most of them with Artesia Public Schools. As a teacher and principal, she has dedicated her career to guiding students through critical years of growth and development, especially in the middle grades.
For the past 12 years, Chanda has served as a principal, where her passion for education, people, and community shines. Her leadership focuses not only on academic success but on building confidence, character, and a strong sense of purpose in both students and staff.
Chanda and her husband, Casey—also a lifelong educator—have raised their daughters with the same values of faith, learning, and encouragement that guide their work in schools.
Chanda’s impact extends beyond the classroom—she leads by example, lifts others up, and inspires her community through unwavering dedication. Her work is a testament to the power of education to transform lives, and she continues to embody the true spirit of a Woman of Impact.
Alma Martinez
ENTREPRENEUR
Alma Martinez’s journey in the restaurant industry began in 1997, driven by a deep determination to provide for her two children after becoming a widow. Starting as a server at Chapz, she worked tirelessly for nine years. Her perseverance and leadership led to a promotion to Assistant General Manager at The Paddock, where she spent another nine years refining her skills in operations and customer service.
When The Paddock closed, Alma saw opportunity in adversity. She leased Los Potrillos and, in 2019, partnered with investors to open a brand-new restaurant—Alma’s. Since then, it has become a cornerstone of the Artesia community, known not only for its food but for its heart. Alma provides jobs, supports local causes, and offers free meals to those in need. She sees her business as a way to give back and believes true success is measured by how much you uplift others.
Alma credits her loyal team and the Artesia community for her success. Her story is a powerful example of resilience, generosity, and the impact of local entrepreneurship—proof that hard work and heart can transform lives.
Krista Bartock
HEALTHCARE
Krista Bartock is a compassionate healthcare professional whose impact on the Artesia community reaches far beyond her demanding job schedule. As a nurse at Artesia General Hospital, a flight nurse with Native Air, and a caregiver at Carlsbad ER, Krista is constantly on the move—yet she still finds time to give back. She volunteers as a CPR instructor, often teaching classes for free to local schools and being a trusted resource when someone in the community is ill or injured.
Krista’s heart for service is evident in everything she does. Whether she’s stepping in to help in the ER, mentoring others, or giving freely of her time, she shows an unwavering dedication to others’ well-being. Recently, she and her husband launched a food truck business, adding “entrepreneur” to her growing list of roles—all while staying grounded in her mission to serve.
Krista’s generosity, work ethic, and love for her community define her as a Woman of Impact whose presence makes Artesia healthier, safer, and stronger.
SuAnn Greenwood
NON-PROFIT
SuAnn Greenwood is the driving force behind Packs of Love, a vital program that ensures children in Artesia never face hunger. Through her leadership, SuAnn organizes, assembles, and distributes food packs to students experiencing food insecurity. Her work doesn’t stop with logistics—she’s an advocate, fundraiser, and community connector who continually seeks new ways to meet the needs of the most vulnerable.
SuAnn’s tireless commitment reflects a deep compassion for children and a desire to create long-term change. Her efforts provide more than just nourishment—they deliver hope, comfort, and stability to families who need it most. Her selfless service, day after day, has become a lifeline for countless kids in Artesia.
SuAnn embodies the quiet strength and enduring kindness of a Woman of Impact. By addressing food insecurity head-on, she’s changing lives and inspiring others to step forward and serve.
Nicole Valencia
OIL & GAS
Nicole Valencia is a dedicated professional, mother, and community leader whose influence is felt in every corner of Artesia. By day, she brings excellence and integrity to her role as an accountant at Mack Energy. But Nicole’s contributions extend far beyond the workplace.
As an active board member of Artesia MainStreet, Nicole plays a vital role in driving downtown revitalization and community connection. She balances her responsibilities with grace, all while raising two teens and showing up for local events and causes. Nicole exemplifies what it means to serve with heart—she’s reliable, thoughtful, and always ready to lend a hand.
Whether organizing, volunteering, or leading behind the scenes, Nicole brings purpose and positivity to everything she does. She’s a Woman of Impact who helps make Artesia stronger, more vibrant, and more united.
Veronica Soto
RISING STAR
Veronica Soto, an Artesia native and graduate of Artesia High School, is a Chase Scholar and proud alumna of New Mexico State University (NMSU). She is currently employed by Buffalo Oilfield Supply. Veronica Soto has become a powerful voice in Artesia’s fight against human trafficking. Inspired by her experience as a guest speaker at a Women for a Better Artesia luncheon in 2023, Veronica partnered with retired FBI agent and former professor Ida D’Antonio Hangen to launch a local awareness campaign. Together, they’ve organized impactful events—community luncheons, high school presentations, and media appearances—all aimed at educating and empowering the public.
Veronica’s dedication has sparked vital conversations throughout Artesia, drawing attention to the dangers of trafficking and the importance of prevention. She’s collaborated with the Artesia Police Department, written for Focus on Artesia magazine, and continually works to inform and protect her community.
Her courage, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to education make Veronica a Woman of Impact, turning awareness into action and inspiring others to stand up for what matters.
Mitzi Mccaleb
2025 WOMAN OF THE YEAR
As the first Director of Health and Wellness for Artesia Public Schools, Mitzi McCaleb has set a powerful standard for what it means to lead with purpose. She has forged meaningful partnerships—most notably with Permian Basin Counseling—to ensure students receive the mental health resources they need. Whether working after hours, spending her own money to meet student needs, or quietly offering support to families in crisis, Mitzi embodies compassion in action.
Her behind-the-scenes efforts have transformed the district’s approach to wellness. As the McKinney-Vento liaison, she supports students experiencing housing instability and her collaboration with our local foundations extends the impact to Artesia’s students even further.
Mitzi’s work may often go unseen, but its effects are undeniable. She is changing lives and redefining how a school district can care for its students—with empathy, advocacy, and boundless heart.
