El Paso Women’s Hall of Fame Honors Helen Santamaria

(Editor’s Note: Information excerpted from the nomination forms completed by Jo Soto)

“Since her teens Helen Santamaria has dedicated her life as a member of the Loretto Community to her mission of ‘working for justice and acting for peace’ through education, addressing border issues and responding to the needs of the homeless in El Paso. Helen worked as director of development and president of Loretto Academy from 1989 to 1995. There she encouraged students to service, beginning with Annunciation House run by Ruben Garcia. Helen met the challenge of changing the resistance of many Latino students to see themselves as leaders. Many serve the El Paso community today as leaders in positions of law, justice and business.

“Her mission then led her to found Villa Maria, where more than 400 women who found themselves in desperate circumstances could transition into mainstream, wholesome lives. Villa Maria, a beautiful, safe, supportive and spiritual community, has made healing possible. Volunteers and workers have marked the space with love and compassion for those less fortunate. Helen is a member of the Villa Maria board of directors.

“From 1996 to 2003 Helen broke ground serving on a number of civic boards serving El Paso and its residents. Initiatives to educate the community on preventative health care, better nutrition programs and improved access to information were furthered on the El Paso Del Norte Health Foundation Board.

“Helen volunteers at the Opportunity Center for the homeless and will complete certification in spiritual direction. She then will continue to guide and comfort the poor and homeless. She sits on the Sacred Heart Parish Finance Council, serves as a sacristan for the Loretto Academy Chapel, volunteers and recently was one of 10 representatives from the USC Jesuit Province delegation to the Jesuit Gathering for Social and International Ministries in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.”

It isn’t any wonder that Helen Santamaria was inducted into the El Paso Women’s Hall of Fame on April 23 for civic leadership. Along with the many Loretto Community members who were in attendance, we thank you, Helen, for a life committed to the improvement of life for those who are in need.