Anna Marie Garcia Leaves Legacy of Advocacy, Equity, and Innovation
December 20, 2024
After 14 years of exemplary service, Anna Marie Garcia, Vice President of Early Childhood Education at the LANL Foundation, will retire at the end of 2024. Her tenure has been marked by transformative leadership, unwavering commitment, and a deep dedication to improving the lives of young children, families, and communities in Northern New Mexico.
Anna Marie has been a guiding force in the growth and success of the Early Childhood Program, leading with vision, integrity, and a passion for fostering equity and inclusion. Since joining the LANL Foundation in 2010, she has spearheaded significant advancements in early childhood education and played a pivotal role in supporting New Mexico’s statewide home visiting initiatives, including the First Born and More model. Her work has left an indelible mark on the field, championing inclusive spaces where all children can grow and thrive.
“While my decision to retire was not easy, I am confident in the future of the LANL Foundation. I look forward to watching the next generation of leadership take the Early Childhood Program to even greater heights. It has been an incredible honor to serve the communities, and I am deeply grateful to my colleagues, our partners, and the communities we serve for their support over the years,” she said.
Before her time at LANL Foundation, Anna Marie dedicated her career to supporting families across New Mexico. She co-founded the Las Cumbres Community Services Early Childhood program, worked in early intervention programs advocating for children with diverse needs, and did private consulting, including with the State of New Mexico Infant Toddler Program to connect staff and families to vital resources. She also taught future educators at Northern New Mexico College and Santa Fe Community College. These roles reflect her lifelong commitment to empowering communities through education and support.
“Anna Marie has made an indelible impact on Northern New Mexico, nurturing early childhood programming for over 15 years — from home visiting to kindergarten preparation, to building coalitions that support childcare providers across our region. At the LANL Foundation, we will particularly cherish the impact she has made as a mentor and advisor for so many of us, serving as a shining example for how we best serve students and families,” said LANL Foundation President and CEO Dr. Gwen Perea Warniment.
Anna Marie’s leadership has garnered widespread respect for her strategic vision, advocacy, and ability to build positive, inclusive learning environments. Her impact is celebrated by colleagues, partners, and community leaders alike.
“The Eight Northern Indian Pueblos Council extends our deepest gratitude to Anna Marie for her remarkable dedication and the profound impact she has had on the Pueblo Outreach Project,” said Phillip Perez, ENIPC Executive Director. “Her unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions will shape the future of our programs for years to come. Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement, Anna Marie!”
The LANL Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to promote racial and social equity through diverse programming that empowers Northern New Mexico communities. Anna Marie has furthered this vision through initiatives like self-care and special education classes, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire and support the region.
As she steps into retirement, she will continue to serve as a trusted advisor to the Early Childhood team. Her successor, Jovanna Archuleta, currently the Early Childhood Director of Community Outreach at LANL Foundation, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Jovanna rejoined the Foundation in 2022 after serving as the Assistant Secretary for Native American Early Education and Care with the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department. She is deeply committed to continuing the impactful work initiated by Anna Marie.
Early Childhood
Education Program Director
“It is an honor to follow in the footsteps of Anna Marie, whose vision and leadership have set a remarkable path for our continued work,” said Jovanna. “I am deeply committed to building on the foundation she has laid and leading with innovation and success, supported by our talented early childhood team.”
The leadership transition will officially take place on January 1, 2025. The LANL Foundation plans to host a celebration in early spring to honor Anna Marie’s remarkable legacy and contributions.
