Realignment Strengthen the Foundation’s Commitment to Education and Community Support
November 26, 2024
The LANL Foundation announced the creation of four new Vice Presidents and divisions this month as part of a strategic restructuring to better address education needs across Northern New Mexico.
Under the leadership of President and CEO Dr. Gwen Perea Warniment and with the approval of the LANL Foundation Board of Directors, the organization has undergone a strategic restructuring designed to maximize its impact across New Mexico. This transformation reflects the Foundation’s commitment to greater budget efficiency, enhanced alignment and collaboration among its programs, and a renewed focus on initiatives with the potential to drive transformational change in public education. By streamlining operations and aligning resources more effectively, the Foundation aims to amplify its ability to address today’s pressing educational challenges while staying true to its original mission of strengthening public education.
“For nearly three decades, the LANL Foundation has made a difference in education across Northern New Mexico, and we must continue to adapt to the changing needs of our communities to ensure we continue to do so. Education in New Mexico is facing significant challenges that require ambitious solutions and targeted work. With better program alignment, greater resource efficiency, and the talented leadership of my colleagues, we will provide an arc of support for public education,” said Perea Warniment.
Warniment was named President and CEO in September following an extensive nationwide search. She returns to the LANL Foundation after serving as Director of the influential Legislative Education Study Committee, the staff organization responsible for advising public education policy statewide. Previously, she served as Deputy Cabinet Secretary for Teaching, Learning, and Assessment at the New Mexico Public Education Department.
The LANL Foundation congratulates the following individuals on their new leadership roles:
Mike Dabrieo has been named Vice President of Program and Learning, overseeing the new Program and Learning Division, which combines the Foundation’s existing K-12, Scholarship, Early Childhood, and College, Career, and Community programs. He previously served as director of the K-12 program.
Alvin Warren has been named Vice President of Policy and Impact, leading the Foundation’s growing role in advocating for state policy and funding in support of education. The division will also focus on collaboration with public, philanthropic, private and nonprofit partners to expand education and career opportunities in the region. He previously served as Vice President of Career Pathways and Advocacy.
Tony Fox will serve as Vice President for Operations and Advancement, continuing to lead fundraising and donor relations strategy in addition to overseeing the Foundation’s human resources, facilities, and communications functions. He was previously Vice President of Advancement and Scholarship.
Dr. Mihaela Popa-Simil will serve as Vice President of Finance and Grants, overseeing management of the Foundation’s finance and grantmaking functions. She previously served as Vice President of Finance and Operations.
