From Chron.com:

AUSTIN — Texas’ new secretary of state, Esperanza “Hope” Andrade of San Antonio, said Wednesday she feels a particular responsibility to do “an exceptional job” because her appointment is a first for a Hispanic woman.

“I’m honored. I’m humbled. It’s been an emotional period for me because we made history today as the first Latina,” said Andrade, 58, and a longtime businesswoman and former Texas Transportation Commission member.

“With that comes a tremendous responsibility, because now it’s up to me to do an exceptional job so that the door remains open,” she said in an interview on the heels of her swearing-in by Gov. Rick Perry.

As secretary of state, Andrade’s responsibilities include being the state’s chief elections officer, the governor’s liaison on border and Mexico affairs and chief protocol officer for state and international matters.

The secretary of state’s office also serves as the formal repository for official and business records, and it has been involved in economic development efforts.

Overseeing the upcoming election in Texas, in which U.S. Sens. Barack Obama and John McCain will face off for president, is foremost on her mind, she said, adding that she hopes for a large turnout.

She also spoke of her desire to help improve conditions in the border area, such as those in the poor developments known as colonias.

“I thought they needed a godmother,” said Andrade, “and I’m hoping that I can be that for them.”

Looking a bit further south, she said, “I’ve traveled to Mexico often, and I think there’s tremendous opportunity. I’m looking forward to nurturing existing relationships and building new ones.”

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