Alyssa Orona
Alyssa (Horn) Orona is a dedicated Court Manager based in Alamogordo, New Mexico, with extensive experience in legal discovery, document review, and courthouse operations. Since graduating with honors from Purdue University Global in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, Alyssa has built a successful career within the legal system, progressing from a magistrate court clerk to a supervisor in the district attorney’s office, and ultimately returning to the magistrate court in a leadership role. In her current position, she oversees two judges and a team of eight clerks, managing a wide array of cases including traffic violations, domestic matters, DWIs, and felony case initiations. Her daily work focuses on ensuring smooth operations, supporting the judiciary, and maintaining access to justice for all community members.
As a military spouse and mother of three, Alyssa has skillfully navigated the challenges of frequent relocations while continuing to advance professionally. She demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning, preparing to take the LSAT and pursue law school to expand her impact within the legal field. Her career reflects a combination of ambition, resilience, and a dedication to fostering positive change in the community she serves.
Outside of her professional life, Alyssa is passionate about reading, outdoor activities, and supporting her children in their athletic pursuits. She encourages women entering the legal field to trust their abilities, embrace challenges, and pursue their goals without compromise. Alyssa’s leadership style emphasizes integrity, practical communication, and a person-centered approach, ensuring that both her team and the individuals who come through the courthouse feel respected, supported, and heard.
• Purdue Global - BS
• Chancellor's List Recipient
• Society for Collegiate Leadership and Achievement
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a couple of people. I grew up with a working mom who did whatever she needed to do. I came from a two-parent household where both my parents worked, but I saw how hard my mom worked specifically as I was growing up, and I just always wanted to make sure that I was working as hard as she was. I set that goal for myself pretty young. But my husband has been a huge supporter of mine. He's been in the Marine Corps for over 17 years, got his bachelor's degree while he was enlisted, and he's up for promotion this summer. Having somebody who's equally motivated and has the same setup goals just makes me continually want to work harder, and especially set a good example for my kids.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't sell yourself short. You can do anything you put your mind to. I went to school while my husband was away, I had 3 kids at home, and I was working full-time, and I was able to graduate with honors. I moved, and 3 weeks into my move, I secured a job. You know, if you put your mind to it, you're unstoppable. It doesn't matter if you change your mind halfway down the road. It's never too late to do that either.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge for me as a military spouse is that I have to move when we're told to move. I've become really invested in this community that I'm in, and I've worked really hard to get into a place of prestige while I'm here, and so it's hard knowing at some point very soon, I have to leave and kind of start over again. I am hopeful that I have the same type of experiences waiting for me somewhere else. We're set to move across the country this time, so not only will I be starting over, but law is kind of different everywhere you go. The courts function differently, and that's kind of regional. So that'll be a whole new experience for me.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me both professionally and personally are hard work, a strong commitment to family, active engagement with my community, and empathy. I am also deeply dedicated to ensuring that all court users have equitable access to justice.
Locations
Otero County Magistrate Court
Alamogordo, NM 88310