The Governing Board of the NM Food & Agriculture Policy Council is a diverse body of people with varying interests and expertise which serves the larger group’s interests and efforts. They also serve as the core group on the front lines of the legislative process during the legislative session when members from a distance may not have as much opportunity to participate. Decisions come from the full Council membership as it introduces, shares, explores, deliberates, and decides on issues and policies.
The 2023-2025 Governing Board
Helga Garza, Governing – Board Chair – Agri-Cultura Network
Susan Wilger, Immediate – Past Chair – Center for Health Innovation
Lawrence D. Gallegos – Vice Chair– National Latino Farmers Ranchers Trade Association; Western Landowners Alliance
Samantha Hilborn – Secretary – Rodale Institute
Leiloni Begaye – First Nations Development Institute
Clark de Schweinitz – Attorney (retired)
Eugene Pickett – Black Farmers and Ranchers New Mexico Global and Latino Farmers and Ranchers International Inc.
Anthony Wagner – Wagner Farms
Chili Yazzi – Toohnii Binaneestˀąˀ Ałtaasˀéí Alliance (ToohBAA)
Governing Board Agency Representation (Ex-Officio)
- John Garlish – NM Cooperative Extension Service