Vanessa Ordoñez

Vanessa Ordoñez was raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico, by parents of Mexican descent, and was instilled with values of hard work, perseverance, and a deep commitment to public service. She takes pride in being a mother and a wife to a retired law enforcement officer, rooted in a family of service.

Vanessa is a first-generation American who believes in building strong, safe communities together. She has over two decades of military and law enforcement experience combined, leading with courage, discipline, and heart.

Vanessa most recently served over seven years as Chief of Police for the City of Anthony, NM, making her the longest standing Police Chief in the city’s history. She also currently serves in the United States Navy Reserve and is a proud combat veteran of the Global War on Terrorism and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Vanessa is passionate about helping others, whether it’s mentoring the next generation of officers or building safer communities through proactive, forward thinking leadership. For her, service is more than a profession; it’s a lifelong calling shaped by experience, resilience, and purpose.

Over the course of her career, Vanessa has received numerous honors, including the Doña Ana countywide 2025 Leadership Award in Public Safety, Domestic Violence Advocate Award, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals and Sailor of the Year. She also earned a Flag Letter of Commendation while onboard the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman.

Vanessa graduated with top honors, earning a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Columbia College of Missouri. She also has extensive leadership and advanced training in law enforcement.

In 2025, under her leadership, the Anthony Police Department was recognized as the 2nd Safest City to Live in New Mexico, an achievement that reflects her dedication to excellence and innovated policing.