Who We Are
Leadership New Mexico strengthens our state by educating and connecting diverse leaders through experiential learning.
Since 1995, we have brought together leaders from across New Mexico to learn from one another, build meaningful relationships, and gain a deeper understanding of the people, communities, and issues that shape our state.
Through leadership programs, professional development, and meaningful connections, we equip leaders with the perspective, relationships, and practical insight to lead with impact and help build a stronger New Mexico.
Our Mission
Strengthening New Mexico by educating and connecting diverse leaders through experiential learning programs and activities.
Our Vision
To be the premier organization for leadership in New Mexico through the sharing of knowledge and fostering relations that develop a community of excellence.
Our Staff
Meet the team behind Leadership New Mexico.
Diego Espinoza
President
Message From the President
New Mexico is a state rich in culture, resilience, and possibility. It is also a state that faces complex challenges that cannot be solved by any one sector, community, or perspective alone.
Leadership New Mexico exists to prepare leaders who are willing to seek understanding before judgment, collaboration before division, and long-term impact over short-term wins. Our work is grounded in the belief that strong leadership is built on trust, perspective, and a deep respect for the people and places that make this state unique.
Through our programs, we bring together leaders from across industries, regions, and backgrounds and place them in environments that encourage learning, listening, and honest dialogue. Participants are challenged to better understand the systems that shape New Mexico, the realities facing our communities, and the responsibility that comes with influence and decision-making.
This is not about politics or ideology. It is about stewardship. It is about preparing leaders who are thoughtful, informed, and committed to doing what is right for the long-term health of our state.
As President of Leadership New Mexico, I am honored to serve an organization that believes leadership is not defined by title, but by character, curiosity, and the willingness to show up for others. Our alumni network represents a powerful community of individuals who continue to serve with integrity, humility, and purpose.
My hope is that Leadership New Mexico will continue to be a place where leaders build perspective, strengthen relationships, and gain the clarity needed to lead with confidence and responsibility — for their organizations, their communities, and for New Mexico.
Andrew Bickham-DiGregorio
Communications & Operations Manager
Sarah Chanesman
Executive Coordinator of Partnerships & Events
Our Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is made up of Leadership New Mexico alumni who continue to lead, serve, and invest in the future of our state. Together, they bring diverse perspectives, expertise, and experiences from communities and industries across New Mexico.
Board Leadership
Jared Matts
Chair
Tax Principal, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP •
Core 2017
Louis Salazar
Past Chair
Manager, New Mexico State Government Affairs, ConocoPhillips • Connect 2012 & Core 2020
Denise Wilcox
Incoming Chair
VP – Human Resources & Corporate Security, New Mexico Gas Co. • Core 2024
Tony Major
Treasurer
VP - Business Affairs, Eastern New Mexico University • Core 2023
Ekta Bhakta
Secretary
Community Relations & Charitable Giving, SIMCO • Connect 2019
Board Members
Carlo James Aragón
Director of Strategic Communications, Bernalillo County • LGLP 2026
Amie Baeza
Director, Lea County Justice Services • LGLP 2023
Robert Bischoff
Vice President & Corporate Controller, PNM Resources, Inc. • Core 2025
Daniel Cheshire
Specialty Tax Principal, Nelson & Company CPA • Core 2015
Liz Earls
EVP - Commercial Banking Capra Bank • Connect 2012
Kelly Fajardo
Director of Public Relations & Government Affairs SwireCocaCola • Core 2024
Martin Gallegos
HRBP Manager, Sandia National Laboratories • Connect 2023
Steve Garcia
Director of Business Development, HIIT Contracting • Core 2020
Rafael Gonzalez
Director, Sandia National Laboratories • Core 2024
Gena Goodson
Partner, Albuquerque the Magazine • Core 2025
Justina Grant
Founder & Principal Consultant, J Migdonia Group •
Connect 2025
Dr. Christina Hall, DC
Owner, Wishbone Chiropractic • Core 2024
Cristin Heyns
Principal & Practice Leader, REDW LLC • Core 2024
Teryn Lamoreux
Operations Support Director, Jaynes Corporation •
Connect 2015 & Core 2026
Dr. Michael Law, DDS
Owner, Warren & Law Dental, LLC • Core 2025
Paul Mondragón
President, Bank of America • Core 2009
Rebecca Napier
System VP - Finance & Administration, UNM Health Science Center • Core 2025
Rob Nelson
Specialty Tax Principal, Nelson & Company CPA • Core 2015
Kari Olson
Partner, Spencer Fane, LLP • Core 2024
Brandi Selby
CEO & Co-Owner, American Document Services • Core 2024
Sonya Struck
Taos Community Officer, LOR Foundation • Core 2023
Carol Taulbee
County Treasurer, San Juan County •
LGLP 2019 & Core 2025
Gerald Weseen
VP - Regulatory, Strategy & External,
New Mexico Gas Company • Core 2025