Marisa Mendoza Avila

Client Services, Credits, Inc.

When and why did you move to Hermiston?

I’m proud to say I was born and raised in Hermiston!

What is your favorite place to eat in Hermiston?

Oh that’s tough, we have many, but we always aim to eat out local.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Family – My 8 year old is growing so fast and we are having a blast enjoying every bit of it. We thrive on family adventures.

What surprises you about Hermiston?

The growth – Having have grown up in this town I am amazed in the expansion. Through the growth, it’s been amazing to get to know many of our great people, we truly have a great community.

What is the last book you read and why?

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. I’m a huge Harry Potter fan, and having a 8 year old be a fan as well has been the best!

What app or website do you use most other than Facebook or Google?

I have to be honest and say Snapchat! It has been a great way to interact and stay in touch with family!

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

Dubai. It’s definitely a far-fetched goal, but one day we will make it happen 😉

What is the funniest thing that’s happened to you?

Attempting to drive for the first time ever in the one way streets of Pendleton (safe to say no details needed).

What is one of your goals for the next 12 months?

My recent enrolling in the Leadership Hermiston class has really inspired me to get more involved with my community.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

I’m proud of us, my spouse and I. We were teenage parents, I was a mom at 16 years of age. Faith and family kept us strong, we’ve worked hard, and through it I completed my education. At age 23 we purchased our second and dream home. We hope to set an example that with will, hard work, and faith anything is possible.