Jemez Historic Site
Our Staff
Wendi Laws
Regional Manager
Wendi Laws is originally from New Mexico but moved to Texas to attend Texas Tech University where she graduated with a BA in English Literature and Education. After many years of teaching, she also obtained a BA in Anthropology from Texas State University, and then graduated with an MA in Museum Studies from the University of Oklahoma. Wendi launched her career working for park systems in Texas where she served for over 10 years as an interpretive ranger. Those parks were also home to historic sites where she researched, presented programs, and designed exhibits to highlight the history of the locations. After serving as site manager for two historic house museums in Austin, she is delighted to be returning to New Mexico to continue her career at New Mexico Historic Sites.
(575)837-0587 ♦ wendi.laws@dca.nm.gov
Marlon Magdalena
Instructional Coordinator Supervisor
Marlon Magdalena began working at Jemez Historic Site in 2005 as a temporary Ranger, a permanent Ranger since 2007, and then as the Instructional Coordinator since 2015. Mr. Magdalena is a Jemez Pueblo Tribal Member, artist, and performer of Native American Flutes. He has performed at many places throughout the Southwest and even overseas.
(505) 525-5305 ♦ marlon.magdalena@dca.nm.gov
Brenda Tafoya
Interpretive Ranger
My name is Brenda Tafoya and I am from the Pueblo of Jemez. I have lived in Jemez Pueblo my whole life. I've been a Ranger at the JHS since 2004. I enjoy working at JHS as a ranger and have learned a lot about our ancestors and the place we call Giusewa. I am the middle child of three. I have an older sister named Helen Tafoya, a younger brother named Tyron Tafoya, and my parents are David and Vangie Tafoya. David is the Owner of "Dave's Burgers" along hwy 4 in Jemez Pueblo. I am a mother of three and grandma of nine grandkids. I am also a potter. I learned how to make pottery after high school from my mother Vangie Tafoya who is well known. I have my own unique designs now and do art shows when I can.
(575) 829-3530 ♦ brenda.tafoya@dca.nm.gov
Casey Coty
Interpretive Ranger
My name is Casey Coty. I am an educator and organizer from Albuquerque. It is truly an honor to be joining everyone here in Jemez with New Mexico Historic Sites.
(575) 829-3530 ♦ casey.coty@dca.nm.gov
