Jerry Apodaca facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jerry Apodaca
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| Chair of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports | |
| In office July 26, 1978 – July 29, 1980 |
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| President | Jimmy Carter |
| Preceded by | Jim Lovell |
| Succeeded by | Al McGuire |
| 24th Governor of New Mexico | |
| In office January 1, 1975 – January 1, 1979 |
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| Lieutenant | Robert E. Ferguson |
| Preceded by | Bruce King |
| Succeeded by | Bruce King |
| Personal details | |
| Born | October 3, 1934 Las Cruces, New Mexico, U.S. |
| Died | April 26, 2023 (aged 88) Santa Fe, New Mexico, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse |
Clara Melendres
(m. 1956) |
| Education | University of New Mexico, Albuquerque (BS) |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service |  United States Marine Corps |
| Unit | United States Marine Corps Reserve |
Jerry Apodaca (October 3, 1934 – April 26, 2023) was an important American politician. He belonged to the Democratic Party. Jerry Apodaca served as the 24th governor of New Mexico from 1975 to 1979. He also led the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports from 1978 to 1980.
Contents
About Jerry Apodaca's Early Life
Jerry Apodaca went to the University of New Mexico. He graduated in 1956 with a science degree. After college, Apodaca worked in the insurance business.
Jerry Apodaca's Political Career
Serving in the New Mexico Senate
In 1965, Jerry Apodaca was elected to the New Mexico Senate. He served in this role for four terms. This means he was a state senator from 1966 to 1974.
Becoming Governor of New Mexico
In 1974, Apodaca was elected governor of New Mexico. He was a Democrat. He became the first Hispanic governor in the U.S. since 1918. Another Hispanic governor, Raúl Héctor Castro, was also elected that year in Arizona.
Apodaca won against his Republican opponent, Joe Skeen. Jimmy Carter, who would later become President, even came to New Mexico to help Apodaca's campaign.
Changes to State Government
As governor, Apodaca made big changes to the New Mexico state government. He created a cabinet system with twelve departments. This helped to organize state agencies better. His plan aimed to make the government more efficient. It officially started in April 1978.
After Being Governor
Leading a National Council
In 1978, President Carter chose Apodaca for a new role. He became the chairman of the President's Council on Physical Fitness. This council helps promote healthy living and exercise.
Working in Publishing
After his time as governor, Apodaca worked in publishing. He helped create magazines and newspapers for Hispanic audiences.
Later Political Attempts
In 1982, Apodaca tried to run for the United States Senate. However, he lost in the Democratic primary election. He also ran for governor again in 1998. In that election, he received 10% of the votes.
Serving the University of New Mexico
From 1985 to 1991, Jerry Apodaca was a member of the University of New Mexico Board of Regents. This board helps guide the university.
Jerry Apodaca's Legacy
In 2004, a building was named after Jerry Apodaca. It is the headquarters of the New Mexico Department of Education in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Also, one of the centers at the Ben Luján Leadership and Public Policy Institute is called the Jerry Apodaca Public Policy Center.
Jerry Apodaca's Passing
Jerry Apodaca passed away on April 26, 2023. He died in Santa Fe, New Mexico, after a period of declining health.
See also
In Spanish: Jerry Apodaca para niños
