Celia joined NMCLP in January 2025 as its first People and Operations Director. In this role, she is proud to support the team to thrive authentically as individuals, while they collectively further the powerful goals of NMCLP. Celia is of the Aymara people of Bolivia through her father and was raised by her mother in Gainesville, Florida. Her legal work in Florida, California and New Mexico included support of survivors of domestic violence, as well as advocacy for senior citizens and youth in special education. After moving to Albuquerque in 2004, Celia worked at Catholic Charities for 12 years, directly serving immigrants and refugees, and in her last couple of years there, supporting all programming as the Chief Program Officer. In the fall of 2021, Celia became the first Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at United Way of North Central New Mexico, and then in 2023, the Community Leadership & Learning Director at the Albuquerque Community Foundation. The arc of her professional journey has led to a focus on nonprofit employee wellness, equity in the workplace, and clear and honest communication: Aruskipt’asipxañanakasakipuniraskispawa – Sea lo que fuere, estamos obligados a comunicarnos – In all situations, we must communicate with each other.

Celia is a volunteer court-certified mediator and an advisory board member for Together 4 Brothers. She enjoys listening to podcasts, reading novels and nonfiction, bicycling, and relaxing with her two senior chihuahuas. Her joy comes from being with her young adult kiddos, challenging herself to stay curious, and learning how to embrace rest as a value in life.