Health workers honored for vaccination efforts

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Immunization Coalition recognized a number of state public health employees with awards for their work keeping New Mexicans healthy and safe. 

The Immunization Champion Awards were given during the coalition’s annual conference to recognize those who strive to increase access to vaccinations across the state. The following New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) professionals and programs received awards at the Nov. 21 conference at the Marriott Pyramid North in Albuquerque:

• Erica Flores, Melissa Padilla and Crystal Trujillo, the Immunization Coordinator Team for the Metro Region, for promoting and improving immunization efforts and awareness in the region.
• Nathaniel Webb, an epidemiologist with the immunization program, who created a comprehensive measles outbreak dashboard during the 2025 measles outbreak.
• Scott Minard, the nurse manager for the San Juan County Public Health Offices, for improving immunization rates, practices, policy and education in the region.
• Rickie Eslick, the nurse manager for both the Quay and DeBaca Public Health Offices, for her work traveling the counties to provide vaccinations for people who may not have access to a pharmacy, clinic or provider.
• Roberta Baca, clinic clerk with the Socorro Public Health Office, for educating families about the importance of vaccines and ensuring children have access to vaccines.
• Andrea Halvorson, a registered public health nurse for the Las Cruces Public Health Office, for informing all patients of the importance of vaccinations and making vaccine recommendations regardless of the reason for the patient’s visit.
• Anita Smith, who until recently served as nurse manager for the Santa Fe Public Health Office, for her work managing vaccine inventory and vaccinations to ensure everyone had access to vaccines.  

“We want to thank those individuals who are going above and beyond to protect their community from viruses,” said Andrea Romero, section manager of NMDOH’s Immunization Program. “Their desire to lead the way inspires others to do more to protect our state’s children and adults.”

For more information about the awards or the recipients, contact Robert Nott, Communication Director for NMDOH, at 505-479-0147.

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Los trabajadores de la salud son homenajeados por sus esfuerzos en la vacunación