The City of Santa Fe announced on April 28 the appointment of Sandra Emory as its new Community Services Director. Emory brings experience in public sector leadership, youth and family services, and nonprofit management to the position.
This appointment is significant for residents because the Community Services Director oversees programs that affect daily life, including senior services, libraries, recreation, and youth and family services. The city said it continues to prioritize investments in community-centered services that support healthy families and safe neighborhoods.
Emory previously served as Youth and Family Services Program Manager for the City of Santa Fe. In that role, she managed a $4.5 million portfolio focused on youth development, early childhood education, violence prevention, and family support. She also secured state and federal funding through grants from agencies such as the New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department and the Violence Against Women Act. Her efforts led to an additional $400,000 in intergovernmental funding from the New Mexico Department of Health to expand youth violence intervention services.
Emory has also worked as interim complex manager for the Santa Fe Teen Center during a staffing transition period. She implemented staff training tailored to teen center participants’ needs and expanded partnerships with more than a dozen nonprofit organizations while maintaining strong participation levels.
“As Community Services Director, Sandra brings a proven track record of aligning programs with community needs, strengthening service delivery systems, and building effective partnerships,” said Mayor Michael Garcia. “Her leadership will help advance the city’s commitment to high-quality services that improve access, safety, and overall community well-being.”
