The Utah State Archives is thrilled to welcome our new Government Records Ombudsman, Monica Minaya! Monica comes to us with a wealth of GRAMA (Government Records Access and Management Act) experience having served as the GRAMA response coordinator for both Unified Police and the Herriman Police Department. Let’s get to know her!
Welcome, Monica! What are you expecting in your new role?
I’m so excited to be here! My day to day is to be a resource for the public and record officers on all things GRAMA. That can be answering questions or offering guidance on how to make a request or how to respond to a request. The more intricate part that I will be working on is to get mediations up and going again. I will be facilitating those between the requesters and responding government agencies.
What is your background and how did it lead you to working at the Utah State Archives?
Previously I have worked as a GRAMA coordinator in local government. I really enjoy GRAMA! I find it to be investigative and non monotonous work that keeps me on toes. When I heard that Rosemary was retiring, I was looking to take my career a step further and get more into advocate and mediation work. After my first meeting with the team, I saw the strong passion they have for the work that they do and knew it would be a right fit for me.
What are you most excited about your new job?
I am enjoying just jumping right in and getting things going! It’s been a positive starting experience having people be so happy that an Ombudsman is in the department again. I’m excited to continue to develop my role and getting to know the team, their roles, and learning in depth about the Division.