Incoming Prospectors President Priscilla Lucero with Outgoing President Romeo Cruz
Prospectors gathered yesterday for their annual Passing of the Gavel meeting on July 9—an event that always blends tradition, celebration, and a renewed sense of purpose for the year ahead. In attendance was special guest and honorary member, Dr. Jose Coll, the new President of Western New Mexico University.
Outgoing President Romeo Cruz opened the meeting with business reports and heartfelt appreciation for the Prospector organization. He reflected on the accomplishments of the past year and the pride he felt in serving the community.
The ceremony then transitioned to Dr. Sabrina Pack, who led the formal passing of leadership. She thanked Romeo for his dedicated year of service, noting how his contributions strengthened the organization. Dr. Pack also shared personal reflections from her time mentoring Romeo during his years at WNMU—an especially meaningful moment for the group. Romeo was honored with a gavel plaque, met with warm applause from the members.
Dr. Pack invited incoming President Priscilla Lucero to the podium and presented her with the President's gavel. Priscilla expressed gratitude for the leaders stepping into service this year:
- Laura Phelps, 1st Vice President
- Mike McMillan, 2nd Vice President
- Jamie Sechrist, Secretary
- Vladimir Gnilozubov, Treasurer
- Mike McMillan, By-laws Chair
- Dr. Sabrina Pack, Membership Chair
- Kim Clarkand Jamie Sechrist, Advocacy Co-Chairs
She also recognized the outgoing Board for their commitment and contributions, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines the Prospectors: Romeo Cruz, President; Bart Roselli, 1st VP; Misty Pugmire, Secretary, Vladimir Gnilozubov, Treasurer; Carlos A. Lucero, Past President; and Kim Clark, Advocacy Chair (Priscilla served as 2nd VP and Advocacy co-chair).
Priscilla celebrated the successes of the 2025–2026 year, including impactful legislative outcomes for community projects presented at the annual forum. Through capital outlay and other funding sources, over $10.8 million was secured for local organizations—an extraordinary achievement that underscores the value of unified advocacy.
The meeting continued with the presentation of annual service awards. Kim Clark and Romeo Cruz honored Misty Pugmire and Dr. Sabrina Pack for their outstanding service to the Prospector organization and their long-standing dedication to the residents of Grant County.
Looking Ahead
Advocacy Co-Chair Kim Clark announced key dates for the upcoming year:
- Prospector Legislative Forum: December 3, 2026, at Light Hall, WNMU
- Grant County Day in Santa Fe: February 9–10, 2027, at the La Fonda Hotel
Community reports rounded out the meeting, closing the event with a shared sense of momentum and optimism.
