Santa Fe Standard

Santa Fe, NM—Santa Fe County has announced the appointment of Anne Ryan as the new Community Services Director, succeeding Rachel O’Connor, who retired after thirteen years in the role. Ryan, who joined the County as Deputy Director this spring, brings nearly thirty years of experience in public health and social services.

“Public service is a privilege, and it's a privilege I take seriously,” said Anne Ryan, the newly appointed Director of the Community Services Department (CSD). “The County’s clear commitment to excellence in customer service is evident in every department, and I’m honored to join such an esteemed group of genuinely gifted and dedicated public servants.”

Ryan holds two master’s degrees, including one in social work, for which she is also licensed. She previously served as the Community Services Director for Sandoval County for five years and was awarded Director of the Year for Sandoval County in 2022.

County Manager Gregory S. Shaffer expressed his enthusiasm for Ryan’s appointment: "Anne brings a wealth of education and experience to the Community Services Department Director position, including years of experience working with youth with mental and behavioral health needs. This makes her particularly well-suited to lead CSD in the next stages of its development."

Ryan's immediate focus will be to build upon the existing work of the Community Services Department while supporting provider agencies to develop a stronger system of care collectively. “The work of CSD is simply not possible without the essential services of community providers,” she emphasized. “I extend a deep bow of respect to all of them and look forward to ongoing partnerships as we create new and innovative programs reflective of our changing times.”