Dr. Richard Melzer is a renowned historian, author, and educator whose work has significantly shaped the understanding and appreciation of New Mexico’s rich past. A retired history professor, Dr. Melzer taught for more than 35 years at The University of New Mexico–Valencia campus, where he inspired generations of students with his passion for local and regional history.

Deeply committed to the preservation and promotion of Valencia County’s heritage, Dr. Melzer has served on the board of directors of the Valencia County Historical Society for over 30 years. During that time, he has held the position of president on multiple occasions, leading numerous projects and initiatives that have strengthened the society's impact and reach.

An accomplished author, Dr. Melzer has written extensively about New Mexico history, producing a wide array of books and scholarly articles. His work often focuses on Valencia County—his favorite subject—highlighting the stories, people, and events that have shaped the region’s identity.

Through his teaching, leadership, and scholarship, Richard Melzer has become one of the most respected voices in New Mexico historical studies. His dedication continues to inspire those committed to understanding and preserving the past.

John M. Taylor is a retired technical professional, historian, and prolific author whose work spans both the sciences and the humanities. He retired as Manager of the Integrated Technologies and Systems Strategic Management Group Support Department at Sandia National Laboratories, where he held a distinguished career marked by leadership in complex systems and strategic planning.

Beyond his professional achievements in science and technology, John has established himself as a respected historian with a wide range of scholarly interests. He has published numerous articles in books and journals, with topics including Civil War history, Catholic history, railroad development, and other facets of American and New Mexican heritage. His writing reflects a deep curiosity, analytical precision, and a lifelong passion for understanding the forces that have shaped society.

John M. Taylor continues to contribute to the historical record through his research and publications, enriching public knowledge and preserving important chapters of the past for future generations.

Sandy Schauer is a journalist, writer, and passionate advocate for the preservation of local history in Valencia County, New Mexico. Born in New Jersey, Sandy moved to New Mexico in the late 1960s to attend the University of New Mexico, where she discovered both a love for the Southwest and a lifelong calling in storytelling and journalism.

After earning her degree, Sandy began a career in journalism that spanned decades and made her a trusted voice in the community. Her reporting not only covered current events but also delved into the rich cultural and historical fabric of Valencia County. Through her work, Sandy has helped document the stories of people, places, and traditions that might otherwise have been forgotten.

Driven by a deep respect for the past, Sandy’s journalism evolved into a mission to help preserve and celebrate the heritage of the region. Her articles have informed, educated, and inspired generations of readers, making her a vital figure in chronicling the evolving history of central New Mexico.

Sandy Schauer's enduring commitment to truthful storytelling and historical preservation continues to shape how Valencia County understands and values its past.

Roberta Scott is a dedicated historian, presenter, and community leader with a passion for sharing the stories and traditions of New Mexico. Born and raised in Southern New Mexico, Roberta's deep roots in the region have shaped her lifelong commitment to preserving its history and culture.

She earned a Master of Business Administration from New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, combining her academic background with strong organizational and leadership skills. This foundation has supported her work in both professional and volunteer capacities throughout the state.

Roberta currently serves as Treasurer on the Board of the Historical Society of New Mexico, where she plays a vital role in managing the organization’s financial stewardship while supporting its mission to promote and protect New Mexico’s diverse history. In addition to her board service, she is an active public speaker and presenter. Her engaging talks cover a wide range of historical topics, including women’s suffrage, quilting traditions, and other facets of cultural heritage that highlight the contributions and stories of often-overlooked communities.

Louis F. Huning, Jr. is a dedicated historian and museum professional with deep roots in Valencia County, New Mexico. Born and raised in the area, Louis’s family heritage is closely tied to both Los Lunas and Belen, where generations of his relatives have contributed to the region’s growth and development.

A lifelong student of the past, Louis earned his Bachelor’s degree in History from the University of New Mexico. His academic interests are focused on New Mexico history, as well as World War II and Civil War history—topics he continues to explore and share through his work and community engagement.

Louis currently serves as the Museum Manger at the Los Lunas Museum of Heritage & Arts, where he plays a key role in curating exhibits, preserving local history, and promoting cultural education. 

Margaret “Maggie” Espinosa McDonald is a respected educator, scholar, and public historian whose lifelong dedication to New Mexico’s cultural heritage has left a lasting impact on communities across the state. She is married to Norman McDonald, and together they raised two children: Brendan McDonald of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Katie McAuliff of Chicago, Illinois.

Dr. McDonald holds both a Master’s degree and a Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of New Mexico. Maggie began her professional journey as a teacher in the Belen Public Schools, where she later became a valued support teacher. 

She served as President of the Historical Society of New Mexico She also chaired the New Mexico Humanities Council and  lead the Valencia County Historical Society as President.

Kathleen Pickering has served as the Director of the Belen Public Library and Harvey House Museum since 2018, where she brings a deep commitment to education, community engagement, and historical preservation. Originally from Washington, D.C., she has had a distinguished academic and professional career.

Dr. Pickering holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, a Juris Doctor from New York University School of Law, and a bachelor's degree in History from the College of William & Mary. Before moving to New Mexico, she was a professor of anthropology at Colorado State University, where she now holds emerita status.

Her diverse academic background and leadership experience have greatly enriched the library and museum, fostering programs that blend history, culture, and education for the Belen community.

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Cynthia Johnson Shetter is the Director of the Los Lunas Public Library and its branch, the Museum of Heritage & Arts. Since the museum’s opening in 2008, Cynthia has led a dedicated team in collecting and preserving oral histories, artifacts, and photographs that capture and honor the rich cultural history of Valencia County and New Mexico. Under her leadership, the museum has become a vital resource for community engagement, historical education, and cultural preservation.

Although she has called Los Lunas home for the past 41 years, Cynthia’s roots trace back to a ranch on the Jornada del Muerto near Engle, New Mexico. As a fifth-generation rancher in that region, her upbringing and deep family history have instilled in her a profound appreciation for the land, people, and stories of New Mexico. This unique perspective fuels her passion for preserving and sharing the heritage of the state through her work in libraries and museums.

Stephanie Zuni served as the Director of the Department of Cultural & Historic Preservation at Isleta Pueblo, where she lead efforts to protect, promote, and celebrate the rich heritage of her community. A lifelong resident of Isleta Pueblo, Stephanie was born and raised on her ancestral lands, where her deep-rooted connection to culture, history, and tradition continues to guide her work.

A third-generation potter on her mother’s side, Stephanie carries forward the artistic legacy of her family and her people, blending traditional knowledge with contemporary cultural preservation practices. Her dedication to community storytelling and heritage preservation has made her a vital steward of Isleta’s cultural identity.

In 2011, Stephanie played a key role in the development of Time Exposures: Picturing a History of Isleta Pueblo in the 19th Century, an internationally traveled exhibition that brought global attention to the history and resilience of Isleta Pueblo. Today, the exhibition remains on display at the Isleta Cultural Center, serving as an enduring educational and cultural resource.

Through her leadership, creativity, and passion, Stephanie Zuni continues to uplift the voices of her community and ensure that the cultural heritage of Isleta Pueblo is preserved and honored for generations to come.