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Empowering Futures

Honoring a Legacy Inspired
By a Passion for Education

About Coach Otero

Coach Otero grew up in Los Lunas, New Mexico, but it wasn’t until college that he discovered his passion for running. What started as a personal challenge quickly turned into a lifelong pursuit, leading him to compete in numerous races and earn many running awards. Among his many accomplishments, he ran the prestigious Boston Marathon.

But his greatest pride came from the success of his students and athletes. For him, coaching was never about personal achievements—it was about helping others realize their potential.

After college, Coach Otero became a teacher and cross country coach, dedicating his career to shaping young minds both in the classroom and on the track. He taught Physical Education and Driver’s Education, using both subjects to emphasize responsibility, confidence, and decision-making. As a coach, he focused not only on training strong athletes but also on building strong leaders.

He believed that success in running—and in life—came from hard work, teamwork, and the ability to push through challenges. Under his leadership, his teams won multiple state championships, but more importantly, his runners learned lessons that stayed with them for life.

Though he once retired from teaching, his deep commitment to his students brought him back to the classroom. He quickly resumed his role as a beloved mentor, known for his patience, humor, and ability to connect with everyone he taught. He was never one to raise his voice, but when his arms started moving, his students and athletes knew to pay attention.

Coach Otero’s legacy is one of dedication, leadership, and quiet strength. He shaped the lives of countless students and athletes, encouraging them to believe in themselves and work toward their goals. His impact continues to be felt by those he taught and coached, proving that his influence extends far beyond the finish line.

I'm extremly proud, happy and greatful that I got the opportunity to work alongside [Coach Otero].

-Randy S, Facebook

The Daniel Otero Legacy Foundation Scholarship

The Daniel Otero Legacy Foundation was established in 2025 to honor the contributions of Coach Daniel Otero's dedication to education and coaching. Beyond his role as a teacher and coach, Coach Otero exemplified leadership by encouraging his students to strive for personal growth and to take initiative. He empowered them to not only pursue their dreams but also to inspire and uplift others around them, building a sense of teamwork and responsibility within the community. This scholarship seeks to support high school seniors who, like Coach Otero, demonstrate leadership and teamwork by making a positive impact in the lives of others, and wish to pursue personal growth through higher education.

The scholarship provides $500 per year, renewable for up to four years, for a total award of up to $2000, contingent upon maintaining acceptable academic performance.   The scholarship funds may be applied toward tuition, books, supplies, fees, housing, transportation and athletic unforms/equipment at accredited colleges,universities, trade schools or vocational schools.

Eligibility Criteria At a Glance

For complete details, refer to the application.

Required Minimum GPA

HS Senior with B Overall AND in B health/physical education.

Residency

New Mexico, encompassing both state-governed areas and reservations.

Enrollment

College, University, Trade/Vocational school at least 6 credit hours (or equivalent).

Extra Curricular

Active membership in clubs, sports, band, chorus, drama etc.

Leadership

Be a leader in your school or community.

How to Apply

  1. Complete the Application

    The application is available to download in PDF format.

    NOTE - Required in the application is a 300-500-word personal essay describing your goals and plans after high school.

  2. Provide your High School Transcript

    Transcripts should show the courses you've taken and your grades. If you get a printed copy, please scan so that you can send it in your email.

  3. Request 2 Letters of Recommendation

    Request a letter of recommendation from two adult mentors, who feel you qualify for this scholarship. They will need to email these separately from your transcript and application.

  4. Email Your Paperwork

    Email us at scholarship@danielOteroLegacyFoundation.com with your full name as the subject. Be sure to attach both the completed application and transcript.

Important Dates

Application Due In

16Days
4Hours
8Mins
29Seconds

on April 30, 2025 11:59 PM MST

Scholarship Award Date

May 24, 2025 11:59 PM MST

About The Foundation

The Coach Daniel Otero Foundation was created to honor the life and legacy of Coach Daniel Otero, a beloved mentor, educator, and community leader. After his passing, it became clear just how much he impacted his students, colleagues, and the community he loved so deeply. Inspired by this outpouring of love and respect, his favorite niece*  founded the foundation to continue his passion for education, mentorship, and service.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the foundation is dedicated to supporting students and educators through scholarships and community initiatives that reflect Coach Otero’s values—hard work, perseverance, and teamwork. Together, we honor his memory by uplifting the next generation and keeping his spirit alive in the community he cared for so much.

* technically his only niece, but who's counting?