Shaping a stronger future
Leadership New Mexico is proud to introduce its Core Program Class of 2018. These 41 leaders from 17 communities across the state reflect diverse industries, professional and personal backgrounds, and points of view. Together, they are the 22nd class of Leadership New Mexico Core Program participants who have made an investment in New Mexico’s future, as well as their own.
In this edition of Business Outlook, we share the class’ reflections on their program experience and insights about the future of our state. We think that you will find these individuals are determined and passionate about creating a better future and quality of life for all New Mexicans.
What is Leadership New Mexico, and how does it make an impact on our state? In 1995, a small group of passionate individuals saw the need for a nonpartisan, statewide organization dedicated to the development of informed leaders in all corners of the state. They believed that New Mexico’s future prosperity would be directly dependent upon the quality and contributions of its leadership.
Through the hard work and generosity of volunteers and supporters, the founders’ vision has grown for the past 22 years. To date, Leadership New Mexico has provided nearly 1,600 business, community, and government leaders with valuable insights and nonpartisan perspectives on New Mexico’s many opportunities and challenges. Alumni from 85 communities have gone on to lead with a deeper understanding and awareness of the issues facing our state.
Today, Leadership New Mexico offers four distinct programs: the Core Program, the Local Government Leadership Program, the Connect New Mexico Program and the Alumni Program. While each serves a specific audience, they all provide unique opportunities for participants to expand their awareness, build lasting professional and personal relationships and become part of a statewide network of informed and dedicated leaders.
The Core Program was launched in 1996 and was initially Leadership New Mexico’s sole offering. Designed for established, senior-level leaders, the Core Program consists of six program sessions held in different communities over a 10-month period. Each session features presentations from respected experts in fields such as health and human services, education, crime and justice or economic development. Speakers are experts in their fields who volunteer their time to speak and share their expertise to a group of 40 to 45 Core participants.
The Local Government Leadership Program was created in 2003 for municipal and county officials, school board members, New Mexico National Guard members, and regional councils of government to help them gain the knowledge to undertake civic responsibilities with a passion for effective and ethical public service. It meets for two, 2½-day sessions and is the product of a partnership with the New Mexico Association of Counties, the New Mexico Municipal League and the New Mexico School Board Association.
Connect New Mexico’s Next Generation of Leadership Program, introduced in 2007, is tailored to the needs of young professionals (ages 25-40). This program combines elements of the Core Program and Local Government Leadership Program to develop participants’ personal leadership skills and gain a greater understanding of how New Mexico’s systems and structures work.
The Alumni Program offers graduates from all of the Leadership New Mexico programs the opportunity to continue their educational involvement and professional development through social and educational events.
In early 2018, Leadership New Mexico reached another milestone: the support of more than 200 Lifetime Members. Lifetime Members are individuals who have made a one-time gift to Leadership New Mexico’s endowment in exchange for lifelong member benefits. Their overwhelming support speaks to the enduring value that Leadership New Mexico delivers well beyond participants’ initial program experience.
The diversity of perspectives, mutual respect of participants, unparalleled knowledge and expertise of speakers, and in-depth exposure to our state’s diverse communities that participants receive sets our programs apart. Graduates put their knowledge into action by serving countless hours on boards and committees and advocating for the most critical issues in their communities. Our graduates have a profound impact on the state and are building a stronger future for all of us through their leadership.