James Jimenez, former Director of Policy and Research, hired

PRESS RELEASE
August 2, 2016
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Sharon Kayne, Communications Director, NM Voices for Children, 505-244-9505 

ALBUQUERQUE—The Board for Directors of New Mexico Voices for Children has hired James Jimenez, MPA, to lead the child advocacy organization as its executive director. He replaces Veronica C. García, Ed.D., who left NM Voices at the end of July to serve as interim superintendent of Santa Fe Public Schools.

James joined NM Voices in 2013 as the Director of Policy, Research and Advocacy Integration. He has considerable experience in crafting, advocating for, and administering public policy from his many years of working in state and city government.

“James is the perfect candidate to lead Voices for Children for so many reasons,” said Don Simonson, Ph.D., Co-Chair of the Board. “The Board and staff both feel very fortunate that he was interested in taking the helm. We all have the highest regard for him. Besides having a strong and varied background, James is also an excellent manager.”

James served as the Chief of Staff under Governor Bill Richardson from 2006 to 2008, as Cabinet Secretary of the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration from 2003 to 2006, and was City Manager for the city of Rio Rancho. He currently serves on the boards of directors for several nonprofit organizations and as an adjunct professor at the University of New Mexico’s School of Public Administration.

“It’s really an honor to be chosen to lead this organization and build on the work done by former executive directors like Veronica,” said James. “New Mexico Voices for Children does exceptional and important work. By speaking up for those who have no voice, we make a difference not just in the lives of children, but in the quality of life for all,” he added.

Veronica had joined NM Voices in 2012. “It’s been my honor to serve as executive director of NMVFC,” she said. “I leave behind a great team and board who are devoted to the well-being of New Mexico’s children and families. I will miss working with them all. I applaud the appointment of James Jimenez as the new executive director. He brings much talent, experience, and skills to his new role,” she added.

“Veronica will be missed,” Don said. “She brought a passion for improving the lives of children and left the organization on better financial footing than it was on when she began.”

###

New Mexico Voices for Children is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization advocating for policies to improve the health and well-being of New Mexico’s children, families and communities.
625 Silver Ave. SW, Suite 195, Albuquerque, NM 87102; 505-244-9505 (p); www.nmvoices.org