SW New Mexico News

Terese Flores, a New Mexico State University alumna, has realized her dream of managing parks in New York City after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in geography. Flores, now serving as the Regional Park Manager for Manhattan in the New York City Parks Department, has made significant contributions to the city since taking on her role.

One of Flores’ notable achievements has been the creation of the Park Management Internship, where she mentors young individuals passionate about the environment and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. Reflecting on this initiative, Flores stated, “The internship has been my biggest accomplishment so far because nothing like it existed before in my department.”

During the challenges posed by the pandemic, Flores's expertise in GIS technology proved vital in creating safe outdoor spaces for New Yorkers. She emphasized the importance of her work, stating, “Being part of the creation of safe access to those spaces tells me that, even in a post-pandemic world, I’m doing really important stuff for the people and the city I care about.”

In addition to the internship, Flores co-founded Women in Leadership in 2019 to support leadership development in a field predominantly led by men. This initiative aims to foster an inclusive environment and provide equal opportunities for all leaders. Flores highlighted the group's goal to level the playing field and ensure access to the same opportunities and preparation for everyone.

Flores also actively addresses pressing issues in New York City, such as excessive flooding, by utilizing GIS technology and collaborating with interns to analyze data and pinpoint problem areas. Her dedication to improving the city's parks and addressing environmental challenges showcases her commitment to public service.

Returning to Las Cruces earlier this year, Flores expressed gratitude for her time at NMSU, stating, “NMSU made it possible for me to evolve with the career I was pursuing... it prepared me for where I’m at now.”

In conclusion, Terese Flores's journey from NMSU to managing parks in New York City exemplifies the impact of education and passion in making meaningful contributions to society.

-30-