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OUTSTANDING WOMEN OF VALENCIA COUNTY
Patty Guggino
Patty Guggino, of Los Lunas, is a proud homemaker, educator and historian.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Southwest History and Spanish from the University of New Mexico, 1962; Master’s of Art in history of U.S. West, 1995.
She lost her husband, Larry Guggino Sr., in November. Her family includes, Larry Guggino Jr. (Karen), Patrick Guggino and Jennifer Guggino Othart (Laurent); seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Who was your role model or mentor?
“My grandmother, Minna Fagg, Frazier, Tapana, Frey, Bettinger, who made a difference until her passing at 107 years of age. My grandmother, who was born in 1898 on the Devil’s Promenade, Oklahoma Indian territory, lived to be 107 years young. She never let adversity deter her. Throughout her life, she had four marriages and several careers. Always moving forward with a smile.
“My grandmother was my role model because she looked forward and always had a goal in sight. She taught me the value of perseverance and to look on the bright side.”
What legacy do you want to leave?
“Enjoy life, strive for improvement and remember the importance of family, integrity, accuracy, tradition and historic preservation.”
Have you had any life-changing experiences that led you to where you are today?
“Graduate school in my maturity. Graduate school was life-changing because although I had always loved learning, especially history, it was a positive affirmation of my ability to thrive in an advanced academic environment.”
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What motivates your community involvement and being an active presence in the community?
“Knowledge of the importance of sense of place, unique to each area. It grows from the past, impacts the present and shapes the future.”
What has the history of our community taught you?
“To the achievers go the historical accounts that enrich the present and influence the future. Accuracy is essential.”
What is the best advice you received and from whom?
“The best advice I received was from a graduate school professor, Betsy Jameson, Ph.D.
She highlighted the importance of women to the world, stressed paying attention, staying involved and always contributing the best of what you are capable.”
