Ann Redman
Redman’s life is rich in first hand experiences which she learns from and applies generously. Watching those around her succeed is a joy she internalizes. Pragmatism keeps her feet on the ground and she knows how to make order of typically emotional and touchy issues. With a balance of sensitivity and an even hand she creates opportunities for herself and the women she serves. Whether she’s sourcing money for scholarships or setting up the next Cheyenne Hispanic Festival, Redman’s got timing.
As founding member of the Hispanic Organization for Progress and Education (HOPE), and returning to her role as president there, Redman oversees its HOPE Star, Scholarship and fundraising programs. Redman also founded and chairs an annual state-wide conference for Hispanic females in grades five – twelve. Redman sees to it that Latinas are inspiring Latinas as well as encouraging the educational and cultural foundations of an abundant community. “I believe “The Power of Choice” Latina conference has really changed the lives of girls, looking at things that they never would have thought they could do…”
The powers of choice and resilience are important to Redman, and this is the gift the organization gives young women through education, support and solid role models. “As I grew up, I was often told I could not do certain things because of my ethnic background and last name. And I thought: Why not?” says Redman. She knows how easy it is to be pulled away from self-confidence, and helping women and girls find and stay rooted in their own sense of identity comes naturally to her. And a determined sense of right and wrong seemed to find its way into her vocabulary early on.
Having worked in Governor Herschler’s State Planning under Dave Freudenthal and having mentored elementary and high school students as well as college interns ,while working in the office of both Governor Herschler and Governor Mike Sullivan, she too was given the chance to apply knowledge and find pragmatic ways of moving toward viable solutions. Redman isn’t afraid to name names of men and women who thrive because of the positive kinds of governmental and non-profit programming she’s seen active around the state. “Lots of people have touched my life,” she says.
She sees the fruits of labor when she hears of a young woman who is going to start an anti-bullying club or hears a report from a teacher that certain young Latina are talking about and actively considering an extended education. It’s seems to be a no-nonsense, cyclical kind of grounding that keeps Redman on the go. Still she’d like to “see more women in leadership roles… We don’t have a Latina in the legislature.”
Among board memberships and associations which she contributes her time and energy, Ann has been honored for professional achievement and community service awards and a host of governmental appointments. From Ledoux, Mexico, to Cheyenne where her dad worked first as a sheepherder and then for the Union Pacific, to her job at the state, business college, a husband in the Air Force, and working right alongside generals in the military, and visiting capital buildings whenever she gets the chance, Redman is in the mix, for life. And again, for hope.
|
