ALBUQUERQUE, Sept. 23, 2026 —The American Heart Association-New Mexico Board of Directors has been named a Gold Standard Board for the 2026-27 fiscal year, earning one of the organization's highest national honors for exceptional volunteer leadership, mission impact and community engagement. It’s the second consecutive year for the group to be honored in this way.

The designation recognizes boards that demonstrate outstanding performance in advancing the American Heart Association's mission through strategic leadership, community partnerships, advocacy and resource development. The achievement places New Mexico among an elite group of markets nationwide recognized for driving meaningful progress toward longer, healthier lives.

The award reflects the dedication of volunteer leaders from across the health care, business, education and nonprofit sectors who work together to improve health outcomes and expand access to lifesaving resources and education throughout New Mexico, said Sherri Wells, executive director in New Mexico.

"This recognition is a testament to what is possible when passionate leaders unite behind a shared vision for better health," said Martha Porter, chair of the American Heart Association-New Mexico Board of Directors and branch quality control analyst, compliance and oversight, UMB Bank. “Whether we're supporting CPR education, championing equitable access to care or advocating for policies that improve health, we're working every day to make New Mexico a healthier place to live, work and thrive."

Over the past year, board members helped advance initiatives focused on cardiovascular health, stroke awareness, maternal health, youth well-being and health equity while strengthening collaborations with community organizations, health systems and local leaders across the state.

"Being recognized as a Gold Standard Board affirms the impact of our volunteers and partners who bring this mission to life in communities across New Mexico," said Dr. Latha Raja Shankar, president of the American Heart Association-New Mexico Board of Directors and state plan chief medical officer for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico.

"We know that where people live should not determine how healthy they can be. Our focus remains on creating healthier communities, closing gaps in care and ensuring every New Mexican has the opportunity to live their healthiest life."

The board's work supports the American Heart Association's vision of a world of healthier lives for all and reinforces the organization's commitment to improving health outcomes across New Mexico through education, research, advocacy and community engagement.

Other American Heart Association-New Mexico board members are:

  • Leticia Archuleta, executive director and principal, Health Leadership High School
  • DeeVonda Batres, VP business banking relationship manager II, UMB Bank
  • Dr. Phillip John Camp, cardiologist, Presbyterian Healthcare Services
  • Martha Carpenter, director, NAI SunVista Commercial Real Estate
  • Leticia Chavarria, community advocate
  • Sharon Czech-Siewert, nurse practitioner, University New Mexico Neurology Stroke Team
  • Alexandra Pedersen Green, director, hospice, Presbyterian Healthcare Services
  • Shayai Lucero, owner, Earth & Sky Floral Designs
  • Kathryn Marcotte, community advocate
  • Mike May, director of workforce learning, Future Focused Education
  • Felicia McDermott, stroke care specialist and RN educator, UNM Health System
  • Suzanne Mirabal, business banking sales manager, U.S. Bank
  • Sandra Rausch, retired colonel, U.S. Air Force
  • Joseph Roybal Sanchez, executive state director, AARP New Mexico
  • Chris Schroeder, CEO, Real Time Solutions
  • Mahesh Sita, government relations director, American Heart Association-New Mexico
  • Dr. Robert Taylor, clinical medical director, cardiology, Optum
  • Chris Turner, grassroots manager, American Heart Association-New Mexico
  • Louis Volk III, president and CEO, Delta Dental of New Mexico
  • Sherri Wells, executive director, American Heart Association-New Mexico
  • Sheryl Wilkeson, community impact director, American Heart Association-New Mexico

Information on the American Heart Association-New Mexico is available by contacting Sherri Wells at Sherri.Wells@heart.org .

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than 100 years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries

Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org