SANTA FE — Today, Gov. Susana Martinez announced the appointment of Duffy Rodriguez as cabinet secretary for the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration (DFA).

Rodriguez brings more than three decades of public service to her new position. Her appointment fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Dr. Tom Clifford, who served more than 20 years in state government.

“Duffy’s budgetary and financial knowledge and expertise will help us to continue our commitment to fiscal responsibility in New Mexico,” Martinez said. “I know that her track record of public service will help us keep our state’s fiscal house in order as we continue to work to grow our economy, improve our schools, and keep New Mexicans safe.”

Rodriguez served as deputy secretary of DFA for the last two-and-a-half years, and for the last year also served as state budget director, a role she also held from 2011 to 2012. 

“I am grateful for the Governor’s confidence and leadership,” Rodriguez said. “Responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars is fundamental to weathering the storm of volatility in energy prices, and I am looking forward to helping Governor Martinez continue her commitment to stable and predictable budgeting.”

Rodriguez started her work in public service as an aide in the Washington D.C. office of the late Senator Joseph M. Montoya in 1975. She went on to work in finance and administration through the last six administrations throughout state government. Rodriguez previously served with the Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department, the New Mexico House Appropriations and Finance Committee, the Legislative Finance Committee, the State Land Office, the Department of Health, and the Taxation and Revenue Department, where she served as cabinet secretary.

Rodriguez holds a Bachelor of Arts from Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts where she graduated with honors.