At the Elephant Butte Irrigation District (EBID), it takes a dedicated team working both in the field and behind the scenes to keep operations running smoothly. One of those key team members is Marilyn Crawford, Executive Assistant, whose role is essential to supporting leadership and ensuring the District stays organized and efficient.

Marilyn joined EBID in May 2025, bringing with her a passion for organization, problem-solving, and supporting others. She was drawn to the position because it combined everything she enjoys—working closely with leadership, managing a variety of responsibilities, and playing a vital role behind the scenes. Since joining the District, she says every day has confirmed she found the perfect fit.

In her role as the Executive Assistant, Marilyn wears many hats. She serves as the central point of coordination for the Treasurer/Manager and Board of Directors, managing calendars, meetings, calls, and communication across the organization. From arranging travel and tracking expenses to preparing official documents and maintaining both digital and physical records, her work ensures that daily operations run seamlessly.

Marilyn also plays a critical role in preparing and supporting Board meetings. From coordinating legal notices and assembling meeting packets to setting up meeting spaces and recording official minutes, she helps ensure every detail is handled with precision. In addition, she manages updates to the Board’s website and oversees the District’s bi-yearly Board elections—handling everything from legal deadlines and coordination with election judges to ballot counting and final reporting.

Even when the Treasurer/Manager is out of the office, Marilyn helps maintain continuity by directing constituent concerns and keeping leadership informed. Her work may be largely behind the scenes, but its impact is felt throughout the organization.

“Even though my work is mostly behind the scenes, everything I do supports EBID’s mission and the water users we serve,” Marilyn explains. By keeping leadership organized, informed, and prepared, she helps ensure decisions are made efficiently and transparently—directly supporting how water is managed and delivered throughout the District.

There’s no such thing as a “typical” day in Marilyn’s role. While each morning begins with a plan, priorities often shift as new needs arise. Whether she’s coordinating schedules, preparing documents, or responding to last-minute requests, she is constantly adapting and keeping things moving forward.

One aspect of her role that may surprise people is the level of detail involved. From tracking legal deadlines and schedules to managing logistics and documentation, Marilyn is constantly coordinating multiple moving pieces. When everything runs smoothly, it may appear effortless—but it’s the result of careful planning and attention behind the scenes.

For Marilyn, the most rewarding part of her work is the people she works alongside every day. She describes the EBID team as supportive, knowledgeable, and hardworking—creating an environment that makes even the busiest days enjoyable.

“Being surrounded by such dedicated and genuinely good people makes my work meaningful and keeps me excited to show up every day,” she says.

Through her dedication and attention to detail, Marilyn plays a vital role in helping EBID operate efficiently—supporting the District’s mission to serve its water users and community.