Dawn Sanchez named Deputy Cabinet Secretary for the New Mexico Department of Health

SANTE FE—Patrick Allen, DOH Cabinet Secretary, announced today that long-serving DOH employee, Dawn Sanchez, has been named Deputy Cabinet Secretary and chief operating officer. Earlier this year, she stepped into the role in an acting capacity and now has become the permanent holder of the position. 

“I am thrilled to have Dawn Sanchez as Deputy Cabinet Secretary for DOH,” said Patrick Allen, DOH Secretary. “Her proven track record, commitment to public health, and strategic vision make her an invaluable asset to the Department and our mission.” 

Ms. Sanchez joined the Department of Health in 1996 as the Maternal and Child Health Planner (April 1996 – December 2000) with the Office of Border Health where she was recognized early in her career by Health Resources and Services Administration for the successful implementation of the newly established Federal Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) within Southern New Mexico. She has since held increasingly prominent roles, including Improving Health Initiative Coordinator (January 2001 – December 2004), and Health Promotion program manager (January 2005 – August 2015) with the SW Region Health Promotion Team receiving the New Mexico Public Health Association 2010 Achievement Award for implementation of Healthy Kids Las Cruces in Doña Ana County to reduce childhood obesity. Her most recent position as the Southwest Region Director since September 2015 provided her the opportunity to hone her skills not only in administrative functions but also in leadership. She is a graduate of the 2015-2016 REALIZE Executive Leadership Experience provided through the Paso Del Norte Health Foundation based in El Paso, Texas.  

With a master's degree in business administration and a strong background in Health Services Management and Marketing, Dawn's experience spans across various facets of public health. She has been instrumental in fostering community partnerships, overseeing operational needs, and strategically aligning the Department's efforts with local community needs. Her ascent to the position of Deputy Cabinet Secretary and chief operating officer reflects her ongoing contributions to improving the department and ensuring a healthier New Mexico.  

"I've witnessed the positive impact of our programs and the dedication of our staff during my tenure with NMDOH,” said Dawn Sanchez. “As Deputy Cabinet Secretary, I am eager to build on this foundation and continue making a meaningful difference in the health and well-being of New Mexicans." 

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