Tell us about your past work experiences that prepared you for a position at Cordillera Ranch.
My role as senior associate at Rahe Bulverde Elementary School in Comal ISD unquestionably prepared me for my position as reception manager. I worked directly with parents, students, staff, administrators and volunteers while maintaining a professional and welcoming work environment. The position required strong communication and customer service skills as well as the ability to complete daily office and accounting tasks in a timely manner. Additionally, my experience as a licensed U.S. Customhouse Broker at Farias & Farias, Inc., a family-owned business in Laredo, provided a strong foundation for my business acumen and interpersonal skills. I’m also the owner of Mariposa’s, a local wine bar in Bulverde where I continue to engage with a diverse clientele and foster strong community connections.
You’re often the first person a member encounters – what does that responsibility mean to you?
The responsibility and importance of reception cannot be emphasized enough. As the first point of contact for members, whether in person or on the phone, that impression sets the tone for the entire member experience. Every interaction reflects the professionalism and culture that is the cornerstone of The Clubs of Cordillera Ranch, an organization that I take great pride in being a part of.
What separates an average member experience from an exceptional one?
An exceptional member experience means ensuring that every member feels special, recognized and genuinely valued. It is one that consistently exceeds expectations while reflecting the Club’s commitment to create meaningful experiences. Cordillera’s standard for exceptional member experience is to bring the Club’s motto, “Life is Better Out Here,” to life every day.
What would your slogan be if you were a brand?
My slogan in life is ALL DAY — it truly motivates me to stay on task and not give up. I use it throughout the day when I need that extra mental push.
What do you do in your free time?
I love to play racquetball, travel, read and attend my four children’s sporting/academic events. I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a BBA in finance, and my blood literally runs burnt orange. My son, Edward, is carrying on the Longhorn family tradition and is currently a senior playing for the UT Rugby team. We enjoy attending his games and, of course, supporting the UT Longhorn football team. Hook’em Horns! My son, Jake, is the quarterback for the Smithson Valley Rangers JV team — we love our football! My daughters, Elise and Natalie, are involved in their activities as a student at UT San Antonio and with the Spring Branch Middle School Theater program, respectively. We have a very busy family life — I am so very blessed!
What is the most beautiful place you’ve ever seen?
The most beautiful places I have ever visited are the Tuscan countryside near Florence, Italy, and the Royal Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa. My visit to Madikwe was truly the experience of a lifetime. Seeing four of Africa’s Big Five in their natural habitat during our safari was truly humbling and gave me an even deeper appreciation for the absolute beauty and wonder of nature.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
As a child, my dream was to become a veterinarian. Although I chose a different career path, I was exposed to the challenges of managing animal shelters at a young age thanks in due part to my beautiful mother. I served as vice-president of the Laredo Animal Protective Society for 10 years and, to date, have personally fostered and saved over 200 dogs and cats.
Favorite band?
My favorite band is Fleetwood Mac — enough said.
Favorite book?
My favorite book is Rain of Gold by Victor Villaseñor. This powerful family memoir weaves together the stories of two families whose lives are shaped by their mothers’ extraordinary strength and wisdom. Despite enduring poverty, war and political turmoil, they persevere through faith, hope and love — an inspiring masterpiece.
Who is your hero/mentor, and why?
My mother was, and always will be, my hero. I have always been in awe of her grace and beauty. She believed deeply in the power of forgiveness and patience, and her role as a mother extended far beyond her seven children and eighteen grandchildren. Our home was, and still is, a place where everyone felt welcomed, and where family, friends, strangers and even animals visited for a much-needed hug, laughter, a hearty meal or just a quite respite. At the heart of it, my mother was simply a giver. A giver of life, a giver of wisdom and, most importantly, a giver of love. Sadly, my dear mother passed away in December, and I strive every day to continue to make her proud, all the while thanking God for the gift that is my mom.
