Committed to Service: Judith Perez’s Growth with the Maddox Leadership Institute
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
By WESST | February 27, 2026
Originally from Las Cruces and now based in Hobbs, Judith Perez has been with WESST since 2023. She initially served as a Bilingual Business Consultant and has since been promoted to Women’s Business Center Director.
In 2025, Judith was selected to participate in the seventh cohort of the JF Maddox Foundation’s Maddox Leadership Institute (MLI). The Maddox Leadership Institute is a nine-month leadership development program designed to strengthen leadership skills and inspire positive changes throughout Lea County, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to become action-oriented leaders in their communities.
“The Maddox Leadership Institute has helped me understand that leadership is not just about position, but about responsibility, intention, and service,” says Judith. “I want to be a leader who serves others first, to create an environment where everyone feels supported and empowered. This program requires a high level of self-reflection, honesty, and vulnerability and to take big steps out of your comfort zone. As someone more introverted, I now know that this does not limit my potential, but that I simply lead with a different strength. I am also more aware of my own working and communication style, which will help me better connect with others.
I am better equipped to serve our entrepreneurs, understanding their different communication styles and lived experiences, and I will be able to serve them at a higher level. I want to continue to help them see their potential and feel confident in their ability to grow and succeed.
Building meaningful connections with other leaders from diverse industries and backgrounds has broadened my perspective and definition of leadership, and these are relationships that will continue well beyond the program. The combination of personal growth, increased confidence, and meaningful relationships have made my journey with the Maddox Leadership Institute both challenging and deeply rewarding, and I wish everyone could benefit from this program.”
