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DOH Cabinet Secretary Patrick Allen announces new leadership appointments
SANTA FE — DOH Cabinet Secretary Patrick Allen announced today that Dawn Sanchez is being promoted to the position of acting Deputy Secretary and Chief Operating Officer. In addition, Dr. Miranda Durham has been promoted to the role of Chief Medical Officer.
“I am excited to announce these two promotions here at the Department of Health,” said Patrick Allen, Secretary for the Department of Health. “Dawn’s journey within DOH exemplifies the growth and potential that our agency fosters. Her experience makes her exceptionally well-suited for this new role.”
Ms. Sanchez joined the Department of Health in 1996 as the Maternal and Child Health Planner (April 1996 – December 2000) and has since held increasingly responsible roles including Improving Health Initiative Coordinator (January 2001 – December 2004), Health Promotion Program Manager (January 2005 – August 2015), and her current role as the Southwest Region Director (September 2015 – August 2023).
With a Master's in Business Administration and a strong background in Health Services Management and Marketing, Dawn's experience spans 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 Secretary and Chief Operating Officer reflects her dedication and the confidence we have in her ability to guide our operations effectively.
"I am honored to take on this challenge and contribute to the Department's growth. Together, we will continue to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of New Mexicans," said Ms. Sanchez.
Dr. Miranda Durham’s promotion to Chief Medical Officer underscores her significant contributions during the COVID pandemic. Miranda joined DOH in 2019 as our NM Region Health Officer, providing vital support and direction to the region’s medical staff. Her role expanded to include clinical services at various locations, and she played a central role as the planning section chief for the COVID-19 Vaccine Incident Command System.
"Miranda's experience and dedication are truly remarkable, and I have full confidence in her ability to lead in her new capacity," remarked Patrick Allen, Cabinet Secretary of the NM Department of Health.
In her new capacity as Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Durham will continue to provide strategic medical leadership, ensuring the health and well-being of our communities.
"Dedicating myself to this new responsibility is an honor, and I look forward to further contributing to the Department's ongoing mission," expressed Dr. Durham.
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