RJ Martinez

Richard Julian Martinez III (RJ) believes that authentic leadership is born at the intersection of community and culture. As the Early Childhood Director of Partnerships at the LANL Foundation, he leads collaborative efforts to strengthen early childhood systems in the tribal and rural communities of northern New Mexico. An enrolled member of Santa Clara Pueblo, RJ oversees the Rio Arriba County Early Childhood Collaborative and supports statewide partnerships that promote equity, cultural knowledge, and family leadership. His career spans nearly two decades and reflects his commitment to education, workforce development, and tribal leadership. He has served as a Tribal Councilman, Interim CEO of the Santa Clara Development Corporation, and was a W.K. Kellogg Foundation Community Leadership Network Fellow. RJ’s passion for ensuring all children and families have the opportunity to thrive is guided by the wisdom of his ancestors. Beyond his professional work, he finds joy in spending time with family, participating in cultural traditions, and indulging his love for science fiction and Cowboys football, guided always by heart, humility, and humor.