Counselor in training

link D'Nieka Hartsfield: Staff photo

Rozalyn Cox hangs a stop the violence poster on her office door at the Ninth Judicial District Court in the Curry County Courthouse.

Rozalyn Cox was born in Ogden, Utah, where her fathered separated from the military. Her journey began when the family moved to Los Angeles, California when she was 6.

After her parents divorced, the family moved back to Clovis where her mother is from and she has been in here since.

Cox loves sports and played soccer, softball and basketball at the old Gattis Middle School and Clovis High School.

Today, Rozalyn Cox works for the state. She started her career in 2007 as a court clerk. Cox will graduate Dec. 13 with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and minor in criminal justice from Eastern New Mexico University.

What exactly is it you do for the State?

“I’m the assistant to the deputy court executive officer. My title is Administrative Assistant II. I started in 2007 as a court clerk at the domestic desk, which handles divorces and child custody. About two years ago, I moved upstairs, still as a court clerk but I took over domestic violence cases.

I interview the people who come in and help process their paperwork, which then goes to the judge. I basically handle the intake and the paperwork. I’m also the evidence custodian where I handle all criminal evidence that’s admitted and store it away. I monitor the grand jury and I copy CD’s for attorneys and the public and process records requests.”

When did you decide to go back to school and why?

“I’ve been going to school on and off for 15 years. Life happened. Once I took on a full load but I was pregnant and probably shouldn’t have done it at that time. I did get my associates in 2005 and took classes here and there and now, finally, I will graduate.”

What do you plan to do with your degree?

“Right now, I want to let my husband go back to school to get his masters. After that, I’ll probably go back to school. I want to be a counselor. I want to have a purpose and help others through life situations. I used to want to be a forensic investigator but after having children I changed my mind. I’ve always wanted to be a detective.

What do you love about Clovis?

You know what it is, is the people. The people here are very genuine. If you smile first you’ll get a smile back; if you say hello first you’ll get a hello back. It is what you make of it.”

If you were to start your own company what would it be?

I would definitely be a counselor and private investigator.

How do you feel about pets?

“We have an aquatic turtle right now. It’s easy to take care of. We just clean the tank and feed him. We have a few... shrimp in there. Cats are a no go because my husband does not like them. I don’t mind puppies but my kids won’t clean up after them.”

What is one great lesson you’ve learned that you want to pass down to your children?

“Their relationship with God is very important; to acknowledge Him in all that they do.”

What are some hobbies or interests outside work?

“I love to draw. I’d love to illustrate a children’s book. My deep down dream has always been to be a model. I wouldn’t know where to start. But I love spending time with my children. We turn the TV off and we’ll eat dinner at the table. We alternate prayer days before we leave the house. I love scrapbooking and sports. I love basketball. I played in the women’s league a few years ago but my chest and throat were burning so I had to stop. I like to cook and bake. I like to have a good time so I try to surround myself with fun people.”