Rosario Marin

Rosario Marin served as the 41st US Treasurer, the first Mexican-born official to hold this office. As the highest-ranking Latina in the Bush Administration, she overcame obstacles she faced as an immigrant to make US history.

Marin came to America unable to speak a word of English. Growing up economically disadvantaged, she understood that education was key to achieving her goals. Through hard work, dedication, and perseverance, she learned English, graduated top of her class, and worked her way through college, eventually finishing at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard.

Marin led on many fronts in local, state, and federal government. She served California in several capacities, including Deputy Director of the Department of Social Services, Chief of Legislative Affairs in the Department of Developmental Services, and Mayor and Councilwoman of Huntington Park.

After her son was born with Down Syndrome, she became a fierce advocate for people with disabilities. As founder and president of FUERZA, Marin has assisted many Spanish-speaking families with disabled children, and is on the Special Olympics Board of Directors.

Marin continues to remain active in numerous organizations in both public and private sectors. By promoting partnerships with local government, industry, and the public, she uses skills honed while in public office. From her difficult beginnings as an immigrant to achieving one of the highest offices in the country, her story is inspiring. Marin’s first book, Leading Between Two Worlds: Lessons From the First Mexican-Born Treasurer of the United States, published June, 2007, tells this powerful personal story.