Rosario Marin: 19(?)(?)—: U.S. Treasurer

Marin became visible on the state political scene by serving as the vice president of the California Republican National Hispanic Assembly. Then in 2000, she moved onto the national arena as a Spanish-speaking surrogate for the Bush-Cheney campaign. Her skill and background impressed the Bush administration sufficiently that upon Bush's ascension to the presidency, he appointed her his nominee for U.S. Treasurer. Of the appointment Marin was quoted in the Los Angeles Times, as saying, "I am truly humbled by the honor to be considered for such an important position. Should I be privileged to earn the United States Senate's trust and be confirmed, I look forward to serving our nation to the very best of my ability." The Senate confirmed her appointment on August 3, 2001 and less than two weeks later the Marin became the 41st U.S. Treasurer.

According to Accounting Times, "As Treasurer, the oldest office in the U.S. government, Marin oversees matters relating to coinage, currency and the production of other instruments issued by the United States. She reviews currency issues and redemptions, as well as signs U.S. currency. She also oversees the U.S. Mint and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing and serves as the National Honorary Director of the Savings Bonds Program." However, Marin—a true activist—planned on doing much more for the public's finances than simply signing the dollars in their pockets. "As treasurer, Marin wants to promote financial literacy among Latinos and other 'unbanked' citizens—people who do not use the nation's banking system," reported www.hispaniconline.com. Marin explained her commitment to the website, "One thing is for the banks or credit companies to say, 'You need to open a checking account.' Another thing is for the treasurer of the United States to say, 'You know, I'm concerned about your financial future.'" Marin also supported Junior Achievement's national program designed to teach youth the importance of financial planning. "Too many students are just not ready for the world of checkbooks, savings accounts, credit, or investments," she told Business Wire. Marin concluded her interview with www.hispaniconline.com by stating, "I want to be the very best treasurer that I can be." Considering her past track record, her commitment to help her constituents, and her proven compassion, Marin will undoubtedly achieve that goal.