Katherine D. Ortega facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Katherine Ortega
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Ortega in 1987
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| 38th Treasurer of the United States | |
| In office September 26, 1983 – July 1, 1989 |
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| President | Ronald Reagan George H. W. Bush |
| Preceded by | Bay Buchanan |
| Succeeded by | Cathi Vásquez Villalpando |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 16, 1934 Tularosa, New Mexico, U.S. |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Lloyd Derrickson |
| Education | Eastern New Mexico University (BA) |
| Signature |  |
Katherine Dávalos Ortega (born July 16, 1934) is an important American leader. She served as the 38th Treasurer of the United States from 1983 to 1989. During her time, she worked for Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush. Katherine Ortega also made history as the first woman to become a bank president in California.
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Early Life and Education
Katherine Ortega was born in Tularosa, New Mexico on July 16, 1934. She was one of nine children in her family. Her family had deep roots in New Mexico, with her ancestors settling there long ago.
Her father owned a blacksmith shop and later a restaurant with a dance hall. Katherine started working in the restaurant at just 10 years old, handling the cash register. She grew up speaking only Spanish and learned English when she started elementary school.
As a teenager, Katherine worked as a teller at a local bank. She saved money to attend Eastern New Mexico University. In 1957, she graduated with honors, earning a degree in Business and Economics. After college, she opened an accounting firm with her sister.
Becoming a Banking Leader
In 1968, Katherine Ortega moved to Los Angeles. There, she became a certified public accountant (CPA). She joined a big accounting firm and also worked at Pan American National Bank.
She quickly moved up in the banking world. In 1971, she became the bank's vice president. By 1975, Katherine Ortega made history. She became the president of Santa Ana State Bank, making her the first woman to lead a bank in California.
In 1977, she returned to New Mexico. She helped grow her family's accounting firm into a successful savings and loan association.
Serving the Country
Katherine Ortega was interested in politics from a young age. She often said her father, a lifelong Republican, inspired her. She started by helping the Republican Party connect with women and Hispanic groups in New Mexico.
Her political work caught the attention of Senator Pete Domenici. In 1982, President Ronald Reagan appointed her to a committee focused on small businesses. Later, she was chosen to lead the Copyright Royal Commission. This agency set fees for cable TV and music industries.
In 1983, Senator Domenici suggested Katherine Ortega for the role of U.S. Treasurer. President Reagan officially nominated her on September 12, 1983.
Key Achievements as Treasurer
Katherine Ortega was sworn in as U.S. Treasurer on October 3, 1983. She was the tenth woman and the second Hispanic person to hold this important job. The U.S. Treasurer's signature appears on all U.S. currency.
As Treasurer, she managed a large budget. She also helped raise $40 million for the restoration of the Statue of Liberty. She played a key role in designing new currency to prevent fake money. She also worked to make the West Point Mint an official United States Mint.
Katherine Ortega was known for her excellent public speaking skills. In 1984, she gave the main speech at the 1984 Republican National Convention. She was the first Hispanic woman to do this at a national political convention. She often traveled to speak with Hispanic communities and women's groups.
After President Reagan left office, President George H. W. Bush asked her to continue as Treasurer. She served until July 1989, then returned to her family business in New Mexico.
Life After the Treasury
After her time as Treasurer, Katherine Ortega continued to be involved in public service. In 1990, President Bush appointed her to represent the U.S. at the United Nations General Assembly. She also advised the National Park Service.
She joined the boards of several large companies, including Ralston-Purina and Kroger. She also kept working to support women in business. Katherine Ortega has received honorary degrees from several universities, including her alma mater, Eastern New Mexico University.
In 2002, she received the Horatio Alger Award. This award recognizes people who have achieved great success despite facing challenges.
Family and Personal Life
Katherine Ortega has often spoken about her father's influence. She says he taught her that she could achieve anything she wanted.
In 1989, she married Lloyd J. Derrickson. She does not have any children.
