ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Jan. 23, 2026 — The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, has named Joseph P. Roybal‑Sánchez, Ph.D., state director of AARP New Mexico, to its New Mexico board of directors.

Roybal‑Sánchez brings more than 25 years of leadership experience spanning education, public policy, nursing workforce development and advocacy for older adults — expertise that aligns closely with the American Heart Association’s mission to improve cardiovascular health and advance health equity across the state.

“Dr. Roybal‑Sánchez is a respected leader with deep roots in New Mexico and a longstanding commitment to serving communities,” said Suzanne Mirabal, business banking sales manager for U.S. Bank, chair of the American Heart Association-New Mexico board. “His experience and perspective will strengthen our work to address heart disease and stroke and improve health outcomes for people of all ages, especially older adults.”

As state director of AARP New Mexico, Roybal‑Sánchez leads efforts focused on health security, financial resilience and livable communities for older New Mexicans. Prior to joining AARP, he served for nine years overseeing government and public relations for the University of New Mexico College of Nursing and previously led the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence, where he collaborated with national partners including the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

His career also includes nearly 13 years with the New Mexico Public Education Department, where he worked to improve education systems and student outcomes statewide. - A U.S. Navy veteran, Roybal Sánchez honorably completed his service at the rank of Commander, bringing a strong foundation of service and leadership to his civilian career.

“Heart disease and stroke affect families in every corner of New Mexico, and addressing those challenges requires collaboration across sectors,” Roybal‑Sánchez said. “I’m honored to join the American Heart Association-New Mexico board and support its work to create healthier, longer lives for everyone in our state.”

A native New Mexican, Roybal‑Sánchez maintains strong cultural ties to both Hispanic/Latino and Native American communities. He holds a Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of New Mexico and both master’s and bachelor’s degrees in business administration from New Mexico Highlands University.

Other American Heart Association-New Mexico board members are:

  • Leticia Archuleta, executive director/principal, Health Leadership High School
  • Martha Carpenter, director, NAI SunVista Commercial Real Estate
  • Leticia Chavarria, registered nurse, Presbyterian Hospital, Stroke & Neurology Group
  • Jeff Kinney, chief operating officer, Presbyterian Healthcare Services
  • Shayai Lucero, owner and designer, Earth and Sky Floral Designs
  • Kathryn Marcotte, community leader
  • Mike May, director of workforce learning, Future Focused Education
  • Jeremy Montoya, store director, Albertsons
  • Alexandra Pedersen Green, hospice OP nurse manager, Presbyterian Healthcare Services
  • Dr. Carolina Ponce Orellana, interventional cardiologist, University of Mexico Health System
  • Martha S. Porter, a seasoned financial institution professional
  • Chris Schroeder, CEO of Real Time Solutions
  • Latha Raja Shankar, state plan chief medical officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico
  • Dr. Robert Taylor, clinical medical director at Optum Health Care
  • Louis Volk, president and CEO, Delta Dental of New Mexico

Information on the American Heart Association-New Mexico is available by contacting Sherri Wells at Sherri.Wells@heart.org .

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than 100 years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries

Cyd King: cyd.king@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org