OPINION: Secretary Schroer is a dedicated public servant

Character counts. When times get tough, we prove of what we are made. Former-Cabinet Secretary Jen Schroer is no stranger to hardship and facing difficulties. She has chosen over and over again to fight for what is best for New Mexicans and those around her.

The recent Aug. 16 Journal article disparaging the former secretary for having contracts with multiple government agencies represent an unfair attack on her excellent character. Through her positions as secretary of Transportation and then Aging and Long-Term Services, she worked across the aisle and made difficult choices to improve the workforce within these critical agencies. She has always conducted herself professionally and maintained the highest ethical standards.

Her reasons for stepping away from her cabinet position exemplify her values: She left to help care for her ailing mother. She shifted from her role as secretary of Aging to actually living out those principles, helping her mother navigate a serious health crisis. Schroer chose a path that was difficult personally but reflected what was best for her family — the same commitment to putting people first that she brought to public service.

As president of the New Mexico Academy of Ophthalmology, I have had the honor of working closely with Schroer on critical patient safety issues. Together, we opposed HB36, which would have allowed optometrists — who are not medical doctors — to perform surgery on the most delicate organ in the human body: the eye. This was not simply about professional turf wars; it was about protecting the highest safety standards and ensuring that New Mexicans receive the best surgical care possible. Schroer understood this distinction fundamentally and worked hand in hand with our organization to protect the vision and safety of New Mexicans.

Every interaction with Schroer demonstrates her utmost integrity and character. Her professionalism and genuine commitment to building a better New Mexico are transparent in everything she does. This state is fortunate to have her working with the Public Education Department and other agencies through properly awarded contracts. Schroer and her company have done the necessary work to establish themselves as trustworthy partners, going through proper channels for each and every contract.

The attacks on Schroer’s character miss the mark entirely. Her record speaks for itself: A public servant who made tough decisions, worked collaboratively across party lines and ultimately chose family when it mattered most. New Mexico needs more leaders like Schroer — individuals who combine professional competence with personal integrity and who understand that true public service sometimes requires personal sacrifice.

Rather than questioning her motives, we should be thanking Schroer for her years of dedicated service and recognizing that her current work continues to benefit the people of New Mexico.