This week, we’re talking to Sun-News reporter Leah Romero, who covers trending news.
We’re talking about Barbara Hubbard, who turned 95 on July 12 and was celebrated last Wednesday, Oct. 19, at the Pan American Center at NMSU — a facility she once spent a lot of time in during her tenure as the university’s special events director.
Barbara Ann Johnston was born in Arkansas in 1927. After graduating from Henderson State she went to Tennessee to pursue a career as a doctor. In 1954 her career ambitions changed to become a teacher. She began teaching at Las Cruces High School as a Biology teacher in 1954.
On a blind date, in the early 60's she met her future husband, Peirce Hubbard.
At last Wednesday’s event, Barbara — or “Mother Hubbard” as she is affectionately called — shared stories about her 60 years in the entertainment industry.
A longtime resident of the Mesilla Valley, Barbara has been bringing big acts to perform in Las Cruces since the 1960s. As a nonagenarian, those efforts continue, and so does her passion for getting college students into the entertainment business. She is a force of nature, and hard to keep up with.
Over the years, Hubbard has built up quite a reputation in the industry.
This week, we’re honored to be joined by Leah, who will talk about her reporting and how she has covered it as a reporter.