Norma Chairez-Hartell

Born in Mexico, Norma Hartell and her family moved to the United States when she was only seven. While being raised in the US/Mexico border she gained an interest in learning about her roots. In 2010, Norma graduated from NMSU with BFA and graduated with an MA in Anthropology in 2016 where she focused on highlighting the visual arts of Southern NM. On May 26, 2015, she listed Chope’s Town Café and Bar on the National Register of Historic Places. Norma is the founder of Murals of Las Cruces project and several other public art projects along the border. Norma has worked as a curator for several cultural institutions on the US/Mexico border including the City of Las Cruces Museums System, the El Paso Museum of History, and New Mexico State University Museum where she also taught introduction to museology. She is currently working with Hispanic Access Foundation as a Community Navigator.

Why she works for Hispanic Access…

"Before becoming a Community Navigator, I was a fellow with Hispanic Access Foundation. I was working on identifying historic sites that were deemed important to the Latino communities. Through this work I saw how the Hispanic Access team is dedicated and passionate about helping elevate and support undeserving communities. These values align with me personally. I’m happy I am able to work with Hispanic Access on something I am passionate about."

In her spare time…

“I like to be creative and make art. I also enjoy exploring the outdoors with my dog, Lobo.”

Her favorite book…

“All About Love by Bell Hooks.”

A person she finds inspirational…

“My mother. As an immigrant from Mexico she raised three kids in the United States by herself and was able to put all three of us through college. What a superhero!"