Create Your Planned Giving Legacy

Would you like to leave a legacy that will support the New Mexico Museum of Natural History Foundation without making a cash gift?

Planned giving through a number of vehicles such as a bequest, life insurance policy, retirement plan, charitable trust, real estate, or any combination thereof can help you realize your philanthropic objectives and provide you with many benefits including tax savings, life income, and increased cash flow. This type of legacy gift is an affordable way to support the New Mexico Museum of Natural History Foundation and may allow you to give at a level you never imagined possible.

A legacy gift commitment also conveys membership in the Heritage Society, a donor recognition group established in 2003. This leadership group honors donors who have made provisions through their estate plans or other planned giving vehicles to support the New Mexico Museum of Natural History Foundation.

To learn more, please contact Ernest Rodriguez-Naaz at (505) 841-2838 or ernaaz@naturalhistoryfoundation.org.

A Passion for the Paleozoic

Allene Kleweno visits with Foundation and Museum executives to view a model rendering of the upcoming Ancient Life exhibit. Pictured (l-r): Matt Celeskey, NMMNHS Curator of Exhibits; Anthony Fiorillo, NMMNHS Executive Director; Allene Kleweno; Abigail Eaton, NMMNHF President/CEO

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Walter Kleweno dedicated his academic and professional life to studying Paleozoic rocks, with a particular focus on those from the Permian Age. His passion for these ancient formations was evident during his 25 years as a museum volunteer, where he consistently advocated for the creation of a Paleozoic Hall. Walter and Allene, his spouse, were thrilled to support the realization of their dream with the pending opening of "Ancient Life: Paleozoic New Mexico."

Walter expressed his long-standing anticipation, stating, "I have waited a long time for this, and we are so pleased to be major supporters. It is going to be a wonderful opportunity to showcase the museum's outstanding fossil collection."

Ancient Life is tentatively scheduled to open in late 2024. Watch for more information in the coming months!

Victoria Collins: A TyRUNnosaurus Winner's Story

Victoria Collins, pictured with gold medat at the 2023 TyRUNnosaurus event

In the exhilarating world of running, speed and endurance often take center stage. For Victoria Collins, a seasoned athlete and dedicated PE teacher at Rio Rancho High School, the September 2023 TyRUNnosaurus race at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science was a testament to her unwavering commitment to fitness and health. Clocking an impressive 19:27, she claimed the sixth position overall and proudly secured the top spot in the women’s division.

Victoria's journey in sports commenced at the tender age of six, inspired by her two older brothers and a younger sister who shared her passion. Her track and cross-country exploits began in middle school, blossoming into a collegiate career at Adams State University in Alamosa, Colorado. The pinnacle of her athletic feats was gracing the track at the USA Outdoor Track & Field Olympic Trials in 2008, competing in the demanding 800 meters.

Beyond the accolades, Victoria's trajectory took a coaching turn, driven by the profound influence of her college coach. This dedication led her to Rio Rancho High School, where she not only imparts knowledge as a PE teacher but also molds young talents as the coach of the Cross Country and Track teams. Her coaching prowess shone brightly in 2021, guiding the girls' team to a State Championship and defending the boys' title.

A native of Las Vegas, New Mexico, Victoria's journey weaves through various states, each chapter enriched with athletic endeavors and life experiences. Now, at 40, she remains a beacon of fitness, embodying the principles she instills in her students—emphasizing the importance of movement, health, and holistic well-being. As she continues to inspire, Victoria exemplifies that age is just a number, and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle knows no bounds.

By Ernest Rodriguez-Naaz