AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
AMBASSADOR MISSION
AREA Ambassadors are goodwill representatives of the organization, aligned with its mission. They champion AREA’s cause of growing the economy of the greater Albuquerque region. Ambassadors are educated in economic development initiatives, strategies and priorities through workshops and forums. Through these programs, Ambassadors are able to speak firsthand of the work of AREA and can promote the greater Albuquerque area through an economic lens.
What is the role of an Ambassador?
Ambassadors assist the organization in:
- As hosts in welcome tours, receptions, and events
- As advocates during press conferences
- As participants and guest speakers at Ambassador Training Programs
Who can be an Ambassador?
Any company actively contributing to AREA’s mission may have representation on the Ambassador Committee. Participants who attend a minimum of four designated events totaling 10 points will become certified Ambassadors.
These events include:
- Quarterly Investors Luncheons – 2 points
- Ambassador Trainings – 3 points
- AREA Webinar Programs – 2 points
- AREA Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner – 2 points
Additional certification points are awarded to Ambassadors who refer new contributors.
Ambassadors with five or more years of continuous service achieve Emeritus status and no longer must meet minimum attendance at AREA events. Emeritus Ambassadors will be recognized at the Annual Dinner in conjunction with the 505 Awards.
John Algermissen, NAI Maestas & Ward
Joan Archibeque, First National 1870
Lydia Ashanin, True Health New Mexico
Beth Barela, Manpower of New Mexico
David Black, Isleta Resort & Casino
Jessica Bohan McElroy, New York Life Insurance Co. – Jessica Bohan McElroy
Michelle Breitner, Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Jason Buchta, Infinity Insurance Partners
Nadine Buerger, US Eagle Federal Credit Union
Morgan Cannaday-Henson, The Cannaday Team at Ida Kelly Realtors
Rathi Casey, UKUU Creative
Karen Cribari, Tomasita’s Restaurant
Kathi Cunningham, Rio Grande Food Project
John DuBois, Rio Grande Credit Union
Natalie Durham, Hub International
Judy Esparsen, Courtyard by Marriott, Journal Center
Shane Francis, AdWallet
Angela Garcia, Camnet, Inc.
Erin Gomez, Rio Grande Credit Union
Mike Gorman, Sandia Laboratory Federal Credit Union
Lori Gunnare National Roofing
Melina Hamm, Hub International
Selena Hardy MA, Central New Mexico Community College
DJ Heckes, EXHIB-IT!
Joani Jones, Crowne Plaza Albuquerque
Liz Lopez, Liz Lopez Photography
Chris McCormack, Hyatt Place – Albuquerque Airport
Drake Miller, New Mexico Pinon Coffee Company
Lisa Ortega, Old Republic Title Company
Stephanie Peterson, EXHIB-IT!
Steven Purwin, REDW LLC
Susan Richards, Clear Channel Outdoor
Katy Richardson, Richardson & Richardson Inc
Betsy Rightley, KPMG LLP
Charlene Rimbert, Unite Private Networks
Madison Rumbaugh, New Mexico Pinon Coffee Company
Jeffrey Slopek, Klinger Constructors, LLC
Jonathan Small, City of Albuquerque, Aviation Department
Rosanne Tena, Presbyterian Healthcare Services
Dezaree Vega Garcia, Sunny 505
Lisa Williams, Robert Half
Christi Zimmerman, Associated Builders & Contractors NM Chapter
Melanie Burns, Achievement Gallery
Marius Stein, Clifton Larson Allen
Anthony Will, Holiday Inn and Suites
“Having been an informal ambassador for many years, I am delighted to formally become an ambassador this year. Our community has so many strengths and opportunities before us, and it is up to us to raise our voices, tell our beautiful story, and realize our vision for Albuquerque and central New Mexico. Working together, we can elevate the narrative, grow our economy, and build a thriving community that capitalizes on all of our resources. “
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TRAINING
Stay tuned for the next announcement of our Economic Development Training!