2021-22 Fellows

Andrea is a proud native New Mexican. She kicked off her real estate career in 2017 and has built a successful business as an agent and investor. Prior to 2017, Andrea worked as a Project Manager and Program Manager for the City of Albuquerque and Sandia National Laboratories. She holds an MBA from the University of New Mexico and is a certified Project Manager. Andrea attended St. Pius High School and grew up in Albuquerque’s North Valley, where she resides today with her husband, daughter, and stepson. Andrea is passionate about serving her local community. She is a Board Member for the Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School and the Vice-Chair of the Hispano Philanthropic Society, an Affinity Group for United Way of Central New Mexico.

A native New Mexican, Jason is the co-owner of KW Consulting LLC and has over a decade of experience in public policy, government affairs, and association management in New Mexico. He works with clients across a variety of industries including economic development, education, agriculture, healthcare, broadcast media, and construction to create a path forward for their policy and business objectives. Previous to founding KW Consulting LLC, Jason served as President and CEO of New Mexico’s statewide chamber of commerce and Executive Director of the New Mexico Health Care Association. Jason holds a master’s degree from the School of Political Management at George Washington University and two bachelor’s degrees in history and political science from Arizona State University.

Emily, AIA, is an architect with SCOUT design in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Her project experience ranges from schools to restaurants to apartments and a few things in between. Emily is an ardent believer that great design makes a difference: it sets the stage for a better world. She is currently the American Institute of Architects (AIA) state rep for AIA Albuquerque and serves on the board. Born and raised in Boise, ID, Emily graduated with her Masters in Architecture from Tulane University in New Orleans and has been in Albuquerque ever since. She loves to explore the beautiful mountains and deserts of New Mexico with her dogs Carlos and Dani.

As a 19th generation New Mexican, Jake has deep familial roots in New Mexico’s history, culture, and traditions. He is a graduate of St. Pius X High School in Albuquerque and went on to graduate from New Mexico State University in Las Cruces with a Business degree with an emphasis in Risk Management. Following graduation in 2013, Jake accepted the position with Philadelphia Insurance Companies in Denver Colorado where he witnessed firsthand the success that charter schools had on the community. In 2018 Jake accepted a position with HUB Insurance which brought him home back to Albuquerque to pursue his career in commercial insurance. Since being back he has been involved with the charter school advocacy through board positions with Altura Preparatory school as well as Public Charter Schools of NM.

Sara is the VP of Community Engagement for Nusenda Credit Union where she oversees the philanthropic, community development, and financial capabilities programs of the Credit Union, including Nusenda Foundation and CDFI Programming. After nearly a decade in development and fundraising in the non-profit sector, Sara pivoted to a career in financial services corporate philanthropy to develop strategic partnerships, support change across the state, and work to develop systems to provide access to capital to marginalized communities. Sara serves as Board President for NMCAN, is the Co-Chair for the New Mexico Asset Funders Network, and sits on the National Assets Funders Programming Committee.

David is the Qualifying Broker for Geltmore Real Estate Advisory Team, LLC, which is part of the Geltmore family of companies. Geltmore’s primary mission is to generate economic development in New Mexico by using their expertise in real estate, finance, and entrepreneurship. David’s responsibilities include marketing and leasing space within the portfolio along with structuring joint venture partnerships, arranging financing, and coordinating development and redevelopment activities. Prior to moving home to work within the family business, David spent seven years at Flocke & Avoyer Commercial Real Estate in San Diego, where he leased space on behalf of institutional and private clients. Born and raised in New Mexico, David holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in marketing. David serves on the board of NAIOP NM, and is a founder of SOMOS ABQ, a festival focused on the retention, recruitment, and repatriation of young people. David is married to his wife Shelley and has two children, Morris & Bailey.

Marisa joined the Albuquerque Community Foundation in 2019 and currently serves as the Vice President of Strategy & Equity. With a background in arts administration through the National Institute of Flamenco, Marisa has over 15 years’ leadership experience in agile, resilient, and community-centered organizations. Marisa holds an MBA from the University of New Mexico. In her free time, she enjoys horseback riding, hot yoga, and spending time with her dog.

As Chief Operating Officer of Real Time Solutions, Chris creates stunning, high-performing, web-based software solutions for numerous high-profile customers. With over 19 years of experience, Chris’ eye for design is matched by a keen understanding of usability and functionality. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Chris and his team have proudly supported the State of New Mexico. The tools that Real Time Solutions built to combat the virus saved thousands of lives and made New Mexico a national leader in vaccine distribution. Chris’ passion for his community is demonstrated by his involvement with numerous organizations that work tirelessly to improve New Mexico. He is married to Crystal Avila-Schroeder, who is a testament to his charm...and or her charity. They have a beautiful daughter Abigail who is their little lion.

Shannon grew up in a suburb of Philadelphia. Her early interest in art and detailed drawing led her to seek a B.A. in Architecture at Lehigh University. She found travel and exposure to new experiences greatly influenced her growing love for architecture. A past service trip to Navajo Nation piqued her interest in the Southwest where she pursued her Masters in Architecture at the University of New Mexico. Falling deeper in love with the intense skies, contrasting landscapes, and relaxed attitude, Shannon soon called Albuquerque home. Working at various architecture firms in town, she found education design extremely rewarding, getting the opportunity to work with numerous communities across the state. Upon becoming a new mom, Shannon founded SCOUT architecture + design in 2016. She is passionate about the power of design to positively impact people and their daily experience with the built environment. She appreciates the unique challenge each project poses and the journey to arrive at the best solution with her clients. Shannon loves being a mom, running and exploring the outdoors and new places.

Turning pain into purpose is more a life motto but a mission for Kyle. Since a young age, Kyle has proven to beat the odds and has used positivity and purpose to be a vehicle to overcome adversity throughout his childhood. From growing up in boys' homes to surviving Stage IV cancer at 14 and most recently becoming an above knee amputee, Kyle has found using these life experiences for good is the most beautiful gift someone can learn. Kyle currently serves as the national Cause Partnerships Manager for the headquarters of Children's Miracle Network Hospitals consulting 11 member children's hospitals to grow three national programs (Miracle Network Dance Marathon, Extra Life, and Play Yellow). In addition to his role, Kyle serves as the relationship manager and account owner for four community strategic partners - Columbia Sportswear, Red Bull, Nekter Juice Bar, and AMD - to support the entire network of 158 Children Hospitals. In Kyle's free time, he serves as the Board of Directors President for Camp Enchantment New Mexico, an Ambassador for the Lobo Cancer Challenge benefiting UNM's Comprehensive Cancer Center, and a National Ambassador for CureFest USA to advocate for federal funding for pediatric cancer research. Kyle has a deep passion for adventure, the outdoors, and adaptive sports. As an avid cyclist, rock climber, and skier, you will often find Kyle on spontaneous trips to experience New Mexico's beautiful public lands and the west mountain region.

Beverly is the Chief Operations Officer for Albuquerque Economic Development, Inc., a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to recruit new employers and industry and help local companies grow. In her role, Beverly establishes and oversees internal policies and procedures and provides strategic vision, leadership, and direction to maximize team performance and deliver the desired culture and behaviors that represent the values of AED and its 501c3, the Albuquerque Forward Fund. Beverly has spent much of her 20-year career working for top-tier nonprofits in Albuquerque. Prior to AED, she spent many years as the SVP Chief Business Development & Operations Officer for the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce and as the Facilities Manager for New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science Foundation. Beverly followed her passion for students and education in 2011 by accepting a position as a 4th grade teacher with Legacy Academy, a role she held until 2014. Her education service continued with a seat on the founding board of Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School in 2017. Beverly is a native New Mexican, born in Albuquerque and raised in Bernalillo. She has a B.A. in Mass Communication and Journalism from the University of New Mexico.

Jaime has several years of experience in land use and site planning, applying development codes, and engaging multidisciplinary teams. At Homewise she focuses on strategic land use and site planning, entitlements, pre-acquisition research and analysis, and project management. She is part of a team that increases the number of successful homeowners and builds stronger communities and neighborhoods throughout New Mexico.

Born and raised in Albuquerque, Arellana channels her creative energy as a business executive, coach, strategist, and network connector from a long line of generational business owners and entrepreneurs. Arellana’s nationwide reach as an executive leader spans a myriad of interest areas across corporate, financial, and nonprofit sectors, with diversified and extensive expertise within those fields. She brings a vision-driven approach to decision making, strategic planning, and “dig in'' tactical implementation strategies. With over 20 years of professional experience, Arellana abides by the overarching tenet that “community is key'' and puts that into practice through her service on multiple community Boards, including those of Albuquerque Community Foundation, WESST, WeConnect NM, and the Albuquerque Public Schools Foundation. Among other community-focused honors, Arellana has been recognized as a member of 40 Under Forty, a Woman of Influence, and an Albuquerque Diverse Business Leader. Arellana earned a BBA and an MBA from the University of New Mexico before completing the Graduate School of Banking Program at the University of Pennsylvania, hosted by The Wharton School. Fun fact: Although most of her free time is spoken for, Arellana enjoys prioritizing time with her blended family of five kids—and carving out downtime to brainstorm innovative entrepreneurial endeavors over an exquisite glass of wine (harkening back to her days of managing her family’s Albuquerque restaurant—and local go-to—Cocina Azul).

Keith is the market president and publisher of Albuquerque Business First. Dennis joined Business First parent company American City Business Journals as an audience development account executive at the Austin Business Journal and was promoted to audience development director in 2015. He also served as audience development director in Houston and San Antonio before being promoted to ACBJ's corporate staff as regional audience development director in January 2019.

Keith is a graduate of Baylor University. He recently relocated to the Albuquerque area with his wife, Janielle, and their sons Isaac, 7, and Milo, 3.

Rathi comes from a background of design, innovation, and visual creativity. With more than 10 years of experience in Architecture, Graphic Design, and Web Development, her focus aligns with elevated holistic problem-solving. Born in Southern India and raised in Hong Kong, Rathi loves to travel the world and has worked in Paris, New York, Houston, San Francisco, and Hong Kong. Her love for international design influences her work through visual experiences in both the physical environment and digital spaces. Rathi is CEO at UKUU Creative and her leadership focuses on entrepreneurship, cultivating your brand, and building relationships within the community. She is driven by high-quality design projects and is dedicated to serving a greater purpose. She believes that UKUU Creative completes the circle, meeting real human needs with strong design solutions. Rathi was a 2019 Albuquerque Business First 40 Under Forty Honoree, the 2020 Albuquerque Economic Development Rising Star Honoree and is also one of this year's Albuquerque Business First's Women of Influence Honorees. She serves on the board of Explora Children's Museum (Executive Committee), the Urban Land Institute New Mexico (DEI Chair) and Cottonwood Classical Preparatory School (President).

As the Director of Grant Development and Policy at the Hispano Chamber, Ryan researches funding opportunities, develops grant proposals, and provides updates to our members on public policy changes as they relate to small businesses. Ryan studied political science during her undergrad and obtained her Master's Degree in Public Affairs from New Mexico Highlands University. After college, Ryan served the State of New Mexico in Governor Susana Martinez's office as a policy analyst, focused on the areas of agriculture, environment and natural resources, tourism and cultural affairs, and election integrity.

Jessica is the Marketing Director with Western Sky Community Care, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Centene, in partnership with the New Mexico Human Services Department, provides coordinated healthcare, long-term services, and supports, pharmacy, vision, and transportation services. Jess moved to Albuquerque in 2003 for her Bachelors of Arts in English at the University of New Mexico. She is passionate about creating a positive impact in her community. Missions close to her heart are education, arts & culture, addressing homelessness and animal welfare. Jess’ background, over 16 years, is in the New Mexico nonprofit and health sectors, leading development and marketing efforts, increasing advocacy efforts through the engagement of key stakeholders in the community, and program management. Jess serves on the Board of Directors for the National Hispanic Cultural Center Foundation & the Central New Mexico Community College Foundation, Co-Chairs the NDI Corporate Council, and is a proud owner of an Albuquerque Library card. Jess shares her home in Albuquerque with her three fur babies, Chloe, Ella and Scout.

Annemarie, APR, is the head of growth, strategy and marketing for Cantina Business Strategies and Development. Prior to her current role, Annemarie served as the Vice President of business development and marketing for Albuquerque Economic Development. Annemarie served in an executive-on-loan capacity for the City of Albuquerque’s Innovation Team (funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies) in 2015 and 2016. Annemarie holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Arizona, and earned her Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) from the Universal Accreditation Board in New York in 2014.

Annemarie speaks nationally on the topics of emotional intelligence and communication in the multigenerational workplace. She is a co-founder of Albuquerque’s “Stop Bagging, Start Bragging” campaign, which empowers Albuquerque residents to play a role in the city’s talent attraction and retention strategy.

Margarita joined the Greater ABQ Chamber of Commerce in early 2020. She spent the first half of her career in the business sector working in international business and marketing. For the last 14 years, she has been deeply involved in Title I public education with Denver Public Schools. She’s a former 2nd, 4th and 5th grade ELL classroom teacher, an instructional coach, a staff evaluator, and she has designed both academic and professional development curricula. Most recently, Margarita was a member of the leadership team that specialized in turning around high-priority Title I public schools for Denver Public Schools. During her last three years with DPS, Margarita was designated a Distinguished Performer as a leader. Her most recent efforts at a high-priority elementary school made history by becoming the first Denver Public School turnaround elementary school to be certified by the International Baccalaureate organization as an IB World School. Margarita is a first-generation daughter of Cuban immigrants and the first female in her family to complete a university degree. She holds two Master's degrees, an MBA and a MA in curriculum and instruction, and is certified in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education by the Colorado Department of Education.

Veronica serves as the Associate Director of United Parents and Students (UPAS), a non-profit organization committed to empowering communities to become powerful self-advocates for quality schools and sustainable neighborhood revitalization. UPAS partners with local public schools and community-based organizations to create training centers that teach families the formal skills of community organizing and authentic civic engagement. UPAS began in 2013 and serves over 13,000 families. In addition to NM, the organization has chapters in CA, WA, and TN, and supports families in organizing to strengthen education policy, as well as to increase safe passages, affordable housing, food access, and more. Veronica works with schools and nonprofits in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, supporting parent engagement, leadership development, and community organizing efforts.

Currently, Roberta is a Community Relations Specialist in the Community Involvement Organization at Sandia National Laboratories. In this role, Roberta leads the annual Sandia Gives United Way Campaign which raises over $4.5M per year from employee pledges, benefiting nonprofits located across the United States. She also manages Sandia’s $1.4M Corporate Contributions Program, the annual Kids Day at the Lab, the annual Holiday Gift Drive supporting children in Bernalillo County foster care, as well as several other initiatives. Roberta is passionate about diversity, serving as one of two Deputy Co-Leads for Sandia's Hispanic Outreach for Leadership and Awareness Committee. Roberta participated in the Hispanic Engineering National Achievement Awards Conference (HENAAC) for 20 consecutive years as a recruiter and eventually, as the coordinator of Sandia’s participation. In 2020 she transitioned her role to a new slate of equally passionate diversity champions.

A native of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Roberta received a BBA in Human Resources Management/Organizational Behavior from The University of New Mexico, an MBA in Human Resources Management from The College of Santa Fe and an MA in Security Management from Webster University. Roberta and her husband, James have two sons. Roberta is an avid crafter, a collector of handbags, and may or may not have a high dependency on the Starbucks Pink Drink..