Media Contact: Jason Gil Bear, 277-5813 Laurie Mellas-Ramirez, 277-5915

July 24, 2002 GALLUP NATIVE LEARNS VALUABLE LESSON ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY AND COMMUNITY Kelly Gomez, a graduate of the University of New Mexico and Gallup native, says she has a passion in life to help people, especially women, realize how important a healthy family is. Gomez graduated in the spring of 2002 from UNM with a bachelor's degree in University Studies. She is planning to attend graduate school in the next year. "My goal is to get a master's degree and become a midwife and practice in Gallup or nearby rural areas," Gomez said. "I have always enjoyed children, but more importantly, I appreciate the beginning stages of pregnancy and want to learn more about family environments and motherhood-it makes having a baby so much more rich." Gomez worked at the UNM's Student Health Center for three years before graduating and has received high praise from her supervisors for her dedication to patients and her community. "In addition to her scholastic excellence, Kelly has a keen interest in her UNM community, as well as her community at large," said Bennette Meyer, Student Health Center nurse practitioner. "Her knowledge, compassion and unfailing common sense have made her an asset." Gomez is currently employed at the University hospital as a patient observation attendant. She provides one-on-one care to patients who are confused, suicidal or children who don't have families. "It is a very rewarding position to have. These people are going through a lot of emotions and are sometimes scared to be in the hospital. I am there to comfort them and make them feel at ease," she said. Gomez said taking care of patients has taught her many important lessons about being responsible and building strong professional relationships with others. "I am the kind of person who takes risks and will jump at any opportunity that I am presented with and I have a desire to grow and become a better person," she said. After she graduates, she will return to her community to give back what it has provided her. "The community of Gallup has supported me and I would like to someday give back what has been given to me," she said. Gomez is 23 years old and is the daughter of Marilyn Gomez and the granddaughter of Edward and Betty Gomez who live in Gallup. ###

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