Remembering Dr. Karen Trujillo
Las Cruces Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Karen Trujillo passed away from injuries sustained after being struck by a vehicle while walking her dog on Thursday evening.
“We are devastated to hear of the passing of Dr. Karen Trujillo,” said New Mexico Activities Association Executive Director Sally Marquez. “She was a devoted educator with a giving heart and she cannot be replaced. She made such a difference to so many, always putting kids first. Our deepest sympathies go out to her family and community.”
Trujillo had served as superintendent of the Las Cruces Public Schools since September 2019. She also served as the Secretary of Education for the state of New Mexico and had been a classroom teacher, a school principal, and administrator at New Mexico State University.
Las Cruces High School football coach Mark Lopez tweeted: “I’m stunned. Our leader is gone way too soon. She fought for our kids at so many levels… Even when others wouldn’t. This is nothing short of heartbreaking and devastating.”
“I’m grateful for the life and friendship of Karen Trujillo,” said Dr. Wendi Miller-Tomlinson, Deputy Superintendent of Las Cruces Public Schools. “My heart goes out to her family. May her passion for education live on through the LCPS community.”
Reaction from all over the state was posted on social media following the tragic news. “She fought her tail off for those kids to get back in school and back into athletics. Heartbreaking.” – posted by the Cleveland High School football team.
“We are deeply saddened by the news and our prayers go out to the family of Dr. Trujillo. Not only was she an outstanding leader for @LCPS.net but also an incredible mother and wife. Dr. Trujillo fought so hard for our kids in the community and she will be missed.”- posted by the Onate Knights football team.
“Dr. Trujillo was a champion of education and she devoted her life to the students and teachers of New Mexico. Dr. Trujillo represented her district with dignity and honor and she strived to make a positive impact.”- posted by the Gadsden football team and head coach Dino Facio Jr.
“The New Mexico Superintendents Association (NMSSA), on behalf of its members, wish to express its sympathy to the family, friends, and colleagues of Dr. Karen Trujillo. The Las Cruces Public Schools and the state of New Mexico have lost a tremendously dedicated servant leader who leaves a legacy of accomplishments in public education. She will be sorely missed.”- Stan Rounds, Ex. Director NMSSA.
