Youth Spotlight: Breanne Lucero leads by example as Breaking Bad ambassador

Breanne Lucero of Polvadera has always believed in taking care of the land that raised her. Now, as one of New Mexico’s Breaking Bad Ambassadors, she’s turning that belief into action.

Lucero was selected from more than 110 applicants statewide for the youth ambassador program, which focuses on litter education, community cleanups and public outreach.

“I applied thinking, ‘We’ll just see what happens,’” she said in an interview. “When I found out I was chosen, I was super excited.”

Her application included a résumé, cover letter and letters of recommendation, including one from longtime 4‑H leader Jamie Fassett. Lucero said her passion for agriculture drove her to apply.

“I’m a big advocate for agriculture. I thought this would be a good way to educate people about how litter affects agriculture directly,” she said.

As part of her ambassador duties, Lucero is working with the City of Socorro to bring presentations into local schools. She plans to speak with students at Cottonwood Valley Charter School about how agriculture “feeds us, provides homes, clothes, shelter, food on our tables,” and how litter threatens those systems. “It’s important that kids understand the impact,” she said.

Lucero’s agricultural roots run deep. She joined 4‑H in elementary school and now serves as president of the Socorro High School FFA chapter. Her favorite Career Development Event is veterinary science, a field she hopes to pursue professionally. “Vet schools are so competitive, so you have to stand out somehow,” she said.

Her interest in veterinary medicine began with a difficult childhood experience. During her first year showing lambs, a pack of wild dogs attacked her animals overnight.

“I felt discouraged and so sad,” she said. “From that day on, I thought, I don’t want that to happen again. Even if I can’t save them, I want to give them an easy passing.”

The moment solidified her desire to help animals and support rural communities.

Lucero hopes to attend Colorado State University, inspired by local veterinarian Dr. Dean, who mentors the FFA vet science team. CSU’s partnership with New Mexico would allow her to pay in‑state tuition. After college, she hopes to serve a rural area where veterinary access is limited. “If the closest vet is three hours away, it’s detrimental, especially for livestock,” she said.

Outside of agriculture, Lucero stays busy with year‑round athletics, cross country, swim and track, and dual‑credit college courses through New Mexico Tech, UNM‑Valencia and other programs. She has also served on student council and hopes to return next year.

At home, Lucero is the oldest of three sisters, all active in local programs. Last year, the trio earned the titles of Socorro County Sweetheart, Princess and Queen. Lucero holds the queen’s crown.

“It’s special because I get to do something with them before I graduate,” she said.

Growing up on a small farm in Socorro County shaped her sense of responsibility and community pride.

“I love our little town,” she said. “There’s something special about us.”

Even if her future takes her to a smaller, more rural community, Lucero said she’ll always carry Socorro with her.

“I’m going to tell everyone I’m from Socorro, New Mexico,” she said.

Lucero will graduate with the Class of 2027 and hopes her work as an ambassador inspires younger students to care for their land, their animals and their community.

“I like to advocate for my community and show people what Socorro is about,” she said.