A Voice for African-Americans

A Voice for African-Americans in New Mexico

By Michael Gardner

Yvette Kaufman-Bell (BS 96) always wanted to go to college but didn’t know how. At Clovis High School, she had straight As, took college prep courses, was an athlete and member of student council. After having recited Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” speech from memory during a presentation for Black History Month, she was approached by a former ENMU professor who asked if she was interested in going to college. He offered her a scholarship to be a competing member of the speech and debate team.

Yvette was on the team for two years. She was also the black student services coordinator, a member of student council, and second runner-up on the Homecoming court. While working toward her degree in speech communication and religion, she remained grounded in her heritage. Yvette explained, “It was important to me to be a voice for all minorities on campus who needed advocacy. The opportunity to organize and initiate programs as a student helped me develop into who I am today.”

Speaking to at-risk communities, communities of color and those facing inequities are a few of the things Yvette set out to do in her career. She worked for the YMCA of Central New Mexico for 13 years. She helped open YMCA programs in Santa Fe, Rio Rancho and Albuquerque. Yvette has always focused on the quality of life of children and families. When she was appointed as the youngest executive director of the New Mexico Office of African American Affairs (NMOAAA), she began another journey, this time as a public servant.

In Zambia, Africa, Yvette visits with (from L-R) His Worship Mayor Lungu of Lusaka, City of Albuquerque Economic Development Director Gary Oppedahl, Albuquerque Sister Cities President Richard Buckler and City of Albuquerque Global Relations Randy Trask.

In the NMOAAA, Yvette ensures the voices of African-Americans are heard, and that their history and heritage are in the forefront. For almost seven years, she has led initiatives in health, education, history and policy. Yvette has traveled to Zambia, Africa, on behalf of NewMexico, to assist with efforts promoting education, safety, cultural exchange and economic development. She and her team are currently leading a historic effort with the state’s Public Education Department, looking at the high school core standards to see what in-depth history can be taught about the black experience.

“The rewards this position has yielded are immeasurable,” acknowledged Yvette. “I have been afforded the opportunity to meet people throughout the state, including our elders, Tuskegee airmen, and the first black mayors, legislators, educators, engineers and business owners. Experiencing the successes of African-Americans in our state is one of the many treasures I will take from this journey.”

Yvette is also a published author and has a mentor program providing career, educational and spiritual guidance for women all over the world. “My hope for all is that we discover the next journey with hope, trust and happiness,” Yvette recommended. “Life is always shifting but keep trust in the Lord. There is always another road in your journey. No matter what, never let life harden you.”