ECECD News:

SANTA FE — Monday, the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) announced the appointment of Kendal Chavez as deputy secretary, effective immediately.

Chavez joins the department’s executive leadership team to advance early childhood priorities and ensure that families across New Mexico continue to benefit from high-quality, accessible programs and services.

Chavez most recently served as policy advisor to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, where she led initiatives in early childhood education, food and agriculture, and child and family well-being. In that role, she worked across state agencies to design and implement policies that drive meaningful, lasting changes for communities statewide. 

“Kendal brings a deep understanding of the systems that shape the lives of New Mexico’s children and families,” ECECD Sec. Elizabeth Groginsky said. “Her experience at both the state and community levels, paired with her commitment to equity and innovation, makes her an outstanding addition to our leadership team.”

Chavez has more than 15 years of experience in the public sector, including previous roles at the Public Education Department focused on healthy schools and student nutrition. Earlier in her career, she spent over a decade in community-based settings, including serving as an AmeriCorps member, where she worked directly with students and families to improve health and educational outcomes.

“I’m honored to step into this role at such a critical time for New Mexico. My commitment is to ensure that our policies don’t just look good on paper—but that they truly make a difference in the lives of children, families, and communities across our state,” Chavez said. “As both a public servant and a parent, I’m deeply invested in building a stronger, healthier future for the next generation.”

Chavez holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of New Mexico and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from San Francisco State University.