"Leadership New Mexico was one of the most meaningful professional experiences I’ve had. The program challenged me to think more deeply about leadership, service, and my role in our state, while also connecting me with an incredible group of people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives."
-Bryan Myers
Chief Deputy Treasurer, San Juan County
Connect 2025 Alum
Connect New Mexico is a 5-month, statewide leadership experience for emerging professionals who are ready to grow as leaders and deepen their understanding of New Mexico and their role in shaping its future.
The program moves beyond leadership theory to focus on self-awareness, leadership growth, and civic understanding. Participants engage in experiential learning, candid dialogue, and direct exposure to the systems, communities, and decisions that shape the state.
Through immersive, place-based sessions across New Mexico, participants learn firsthand from leaders in government, business, education, healthcare, and the nonprofit sector. Along the way, they build meaningful relationships with peers who share a commitment to service, integrity, and impact.
Connect New Mexico is not about fast-tracking titles. It is about developing judgment, building perspective, and learning how to lead with confidence, responsibility, and purpose, while becoming part of a trusted network of emerging leaders prepared to collaborate across differences and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
2026 Connect New Mexico Program Dates
AUGUST 4-7, 2026 in LOS ALAMOS
OCTOBER 13-16, 2026 in LAS CRUCES
DECEMBER 1-4, 2026 in ROSWELL
Connect New Mexico is a 5-month commitment that includes:
- Three multi-day, in-person sessions hosted in communities across New Mexico
- Full participation, presence, and engagement throughout the program
- Tuition: $2,000, covering program costs, in-session transportation, and meals. Participants are responsible for their own travel to session locations and hotel accommodations.
Participants are expected to arrive curious, prepared, and ready to contribute to a shared learning experience.
Each session integrates leadership development with real-world exposure to key statewide issues, including:
- Leadership & Personal Development
- State Government & Public Systems
- Economic Development & Workforce
- Education, Health, and Community Well-Being
Session content evolves annually to reflect current and emerging issues facing New Mexico.
The cohort itself is central to the Connect experience. Participants learn not only from speakers and site visits, but from one another, building relationships grounded in trust, respect, and shared responsibility that extend well beyond the program.
Each year, 30-35 emerging leaders from across New Mexico are selected to participate, representing:
- Diverse geographic regions
- Public, private, and nonprofit sectors
- A wide range of professional backgrounds and lived experiences
The program is designed for professionals who are early to mid-career, demonstrating leadership potential, curiosity, and a desire to better understand how New Mexico works.
Cohorts are intentionally built to foster diverse perspectives, meaningful dialogue, and strong peer learning.