Kathy Keith
LANL News:
Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) has selected Regional Development Corporation (RDC) Executive Director Kathy Keith as the incoming director of the Community Programs Office.
Keith has served as executive director of the RDC for more than four years, joining the organization in January 2011. During her tenure at the RDC, she introduced the Business Expansion and Retention Program, the Northern New Mexico 20/20 Campaign and the Native American Venture Acceleration Fund. Each of these programs were designed to help northern New Mexico companies grow and create more jobs for the region.
Keith will join the Communications and Public Affairs (CPA) Division at LANL beginning Aug. 17.
“We are pleased to have someone with Kathy’s experience and skills lead the Laboratory’s community programs,” CPA Acting Director Matthew Nerzig said. “Her knowledge of northern New Mexico, familiarity with the issues confronting the communities in this region, and track record of working with key leaders make her a valuable addition to the Lab’s community outreach efforts.”
Keith said she is looking forward to being able to build on the important relationships she has had working with communities in northern New Mexico.
“We all share a strong desire to build a healthy and diverse economy in the region, just like the Laboratory. With this new post, I anticipate the work we have accomplished together in the region will only grow stronger,” she said. “The RDC has a vast network of strong partnerships in the economic development community, a staff with deep experience in economic development and a strong Board of Directors passionate and committed to creating new jobs in the region. In 2016, the RDC will turn 20 years old. I have had the pleasure of serving as one of four Executive Directors the organization has had in that time. Val Alonzo, who manages our Business Retention and Expansion program, will serve as Acting Director while the board conducts a search.
“To each and every one of our partners, and each and every client we have helped over the years—we are not stopping. This is just the beginning of what we can accomplish together. I hope all of you will continue to support the RDC in the quest to create jobs for northern New Mexico.”