Andrea Ordoñez, director of operations for the Webb County Heritage Foundation, was recently appointed to the board of directors of the Texas Tropical Trail Region.
The Texas Tropical Trail Region is one of 10 heritage tourism regions established through the Texas Historical Commission’s Texas Heritage Trails Program. Covering a 20-county area of South Texas, the region promotes historic preservation, cultural heritage and heritage tourism through partnerships, educational initiatives and community engagement. Its efforts encourage residents and visitors alike to explore the unique history, traditions and landscapes that define South Texas.
As a member of the board of directors, Ordoñez will help support the organization’s efforts to preserve and promote South Texas’ heritage while representing the interests of Webb County and the border region.
Ordoñez said the appointment is both an honor and a responsibility.
“It is especially meaningful to represent Webb County, a community with a rich history, diverse cultural heritage and traditions that deserve to be preserved, celebrated and shared,” she said. “I am excited to work alongside people who care deeply about Texas history and want to see heritage tourism continue to thrive. I also look forward to collaborating with the Texas Historical Commission and the Texas Tropical Trail Region to help promote the stories, places and traditions that make South Texas and the border region unique.”
Ordoñez was appointed to a three-year term on the board.
She brings nearly two decades of experience in historic preservation, museum operations, educational programming and heritage tourism through her work with the Webb County Heritage Foundation.
“I also bring a border perspective shaped by living and working in a region where cultures, histories and traditions intersect,” she said. “I look forward to sharing that experience while helping promote the unique stories and historic resources that make South Texas such a special place.”
Ordoñez has worked with the Webb County Heritage Foundation since 2007, serving in a variety of roles, including museum assistant, museum manager and, since 2025, director of operations.
She said the appointment helps ensure that Laredo, Webb County and the border region continue to have a voice in regional conversations about heritage tourism and historic preservation.
“It also creates opportunities to strengthen partnerships, increase awareness of our community’s history and cultural resources, and connect Laredo with broader preservation and tourism efforts across South Texas,” she said.
Ordoñez thanked the Texas Tropical Trail Region for the opportunity and the Webb County Heritage Foundation for supporting her professional growth over the years.
“Historic preservation is most meaningful when it brings people together, and I look forward to working with fellow board members, community leaders and the Texas Historical Commission to help preserve and share the stories that make South Texas special,” she said.