Congratulations to All Students!

Larry A. Chavez

2026 Scholarship Recipients

President of the Year Award - Amanda Aragon, Executive Director of NewMexicoKidsCAN

Amanda Aragon is the Executive Director and founder of NewMexicoKidsCAN, a statewide education advocacy organization dedicated to ensuring every New Mexico child has access to a high-quality education. Since launching the organization in 2018, Amanda has worked alongside educators, families, policymakers, and community leaders to advance policies that improve educational opportunity and student outcomes across the state.

A passionate advocate for New Mexico students and communities, Amanda is deeply engaged in civic and philanthropic leadership throughout Albuquerque. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce, the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Albuquerque Community Foundation’s Future Fund and Community Impact Committees. She also serves on the board of the Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Foundation. 

Amanda’s commitment to education advocacy was shaped through her work as director of strategic outreach for the New Mexico Public Education Department, where she saw firsthand both the challenges and opportunities facing students and families across the state.

Prior to her work in public service and education advocacy, Amanda spent six years in the energy sector with ConocoPhillips, serving in leadership roles in Houston and New Mexico, including director of stakeholder relations for the state. During that time, she completed the Leadership New Mexico Connect program and was recognized by Albuquerque Business First as one of the top business professionals under 30.

Born and raised in Albuquerque, Amanda graduated from Rio Rancho High School before attending the University of Tulsa, where she earned degrees in international business and Spanish, becoming the first person in her family to graduate from college.

Educator of the Year Award - Rae Lynn Dooley, Principal of Barcelona Academy

Rae has dedicated the past 18 years to serving students and families across Albuquerque Public Schools. Throughout her career, she has intentionally pursued leadership experiences that provide a comprehensive understanding of the educational journey from early childhood through high school graduation.

She began her career as a high school English teacher and has served in a variety of leadership roles, including Special Education Assistant Principal at West Mesa High School and former Principal of Barcelona Elementary School. These experiences deepened her commitment to inclusive practices, equity-focused leadership, and ensuring every student has access to meaningful opportunities for success. Her work centers on supporting students furthest from opportunity while building systems that promote belonging, achievement, and high expectations for all.

A strong advocate for bilingual education, culturally responsive practices, and Latino educational advancement, Rae's leadership is further informed by her involvement with ALAS de Nuevo Mexico, where she collaborates with fellow educators to advocate for equitable opportunities and leadership development. She believes schools thrive when they honor the strengths, identities, and voices of the communities they serve and remains committed to preparing students for success in college, career, and life.

Guest Speaker- Dr. Nathan Roybal, Retina Consultants of New Mexico

Dr. C. Nathaniel Roybal is a board-certified vitreoretinal surgeon, healthcare executive, and New Mexico native dedicated to advancing the well-being of communities across the state. Born in Las Vegas, New Mexico, and raised in Mora, he brings both deep local roots and a strong sense of responsibility to serve and represent New Mexico.

As the Founder and CEO of Retina Consultants of New Mexico, Dr. Roybal has built a leading specialty practice focused on delivering high-quality, accessible retinal care. Beyond clinical medicine, he is an active leader in the state’s healthcare community, having served as President of the Greater Albuquerque Medical Association and as a Council Member of the New Mexico Medical Society, where he has contributed to initiatives that support both patients and providers.

Respected as both a physician and a leader, Dr. Roybal has received multiple recognition for his contributions to medicine, advocacy, and community engagement. Whether working with patients, colleagues, or community partners, he is known for his ability to connect with people from all backgrounds and ensure every voice is heard.

Dr. Roybal remains committed to advancing New Mexico through leadership, collaboration, and service guided by a genuine belief in the people and future of the state.