Josie Valdez

Profile Updated: October 14, 2009
Class Year: 1966
Residing In: Murray, UT USA
Spouse/Partner: Mark Archuleta Wheatley
Occupation: Retired from federal government
Children: Mark, Jr. 31 yrs. old
Carlos, 22 years old
Granchildren: 3
Yes! Attending Reunion
What elementary school(s)did you attend?

Jones Elementary

What Jr High (s) did you attend?

Fonville Jr. High

Do you see or hang out with any class mates? Who?

No--have been living in Utah 40 years

What would we be surprised to know about you?

I ran for Lt. Governor for the Democratic Party for the State of Utah in 2008

I had a small bit part in a movie with John Wayne when I was 19 years old.

Where was your favorite HS hangout?

I worked through DECA and went to school - so I did not have time to "hang out".
My boyfriend and I were named "Cutest Couple" in the yearbook-so we hung out with each other.

List your siblings and year.

Susan, the twins-Arthur and Francis, Jimmy, and John,

School Story:

Went to Sam Houston and graduated in '66. Was in the drum corps of the Houstonettes. Was a member of Distributive Education Clubs of America-won the school speech contest and went on to further competition. My boyfriend and I (Albert Palacios) were elected "Cutest Couple" and have our picture in the yearbook. Worked in the Nurses office for one of my class periods. Attended Latter Day Saint seminary at 5am every morning before school.

Favorite Quote

"Make no small plans, for they have not the power to stir mens minds." Daniel Burnham

Famous or interesting people you've met?

I met Hillary Clinton when I preceeded her onstage for a fundraiser here in Salt lake City.
I also met John Wayne when I was 19 yrs. old.

Ever been on TV? Tell us all about it.

I am considered one of the Hispanic leaders here in Utah and am interviewed on various subjects quite often. Also, I served as Assistant District Director for the U.S. Small Business Administration. As such I served as Public Information Officer for the Utah office and was interviewed repeated on business issues. Then, in my political career I have appeared both on radio and television.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I do alot of volunteer work now that I am retired. Also, my husband and I are quite involved in the Utah Democratic Party. He serves in the Utah House of Representatives-his 3rd term. I am involved in our Utah Hispanic Democratic Caucus and have run for Salt Lake County Assessor and for Lieutenant Governor.

Name something you dearly love. and why?

My husband, my two sons and the time and energy to enjoy them. I have been so busy with my professional life, that, now that I am retired, I love being a wife and mother.

Comments:

Good memories of Sam Houston High. It was a hard life back then--working and going to school. I always had high goals and great dreams.
Now, my husband and I are considered "pillars" in our community. We give many hours of service to Utah citizens. He and I were named Distinguished Alumni of the Year for Westminster College-our Alma Mater. We have been blessed and will continue on our road of service.

Hide Comments
Posted: Dec 24, 2016 at 9:36 AM
Bill Richardson and I
Posted: Dec 24, 2016 at 9:36 AM
My hubby and I
Posted: Dec 24, 2016 at 9:36 AM
Me clowning around
Posted: Dec 24, 2016 at 9:36 AM
Me and my family
Posted: Dec 24, 2016 at 9:36 AM




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