LAS CRUCES, NM – The Bridge of Southern New Mexico today announced the return of Tracey Bryan to the position of President and CEO. Bryan formerly led the organization from 2010-2013, before leaving Las Cruces to move to Washington, D.C.
Bridge Board of Directors Chair Dr. Renay Scott announced the selection of Bryan, who returns to the organization after three years with Widmeyer Communications’ PreK-12 team. During her tenure, she was primarily focused on support for the W.K. Kellogg Foundation’s work to support children and families, including its Education & Learning and Family Economic Security portfolios, as well as educational efforts of the ExxonMobil Foundation.
Dr. Scott said, “Ms. Bryan brings to the Bridge the type of visionary leadership and experience necessary for the Bridge to accomplish its mission of enhancing the workforce in Dona Ana County.”
“Being in Washington, D.C. gave me an even greater appreciation for just how visionary the leadership of this county has been…not just discussing the need to better connect education and success in the workforce, but devising innovative solutions that work for young people,” Bryan said. “Now that the national conversation has caught up with us, there are huge opportunities to equip even more children and youth, unleash their potential, and transform our economy for the long-term.”
Bryan steps back into the leadership role after the recent departure of Denni Cheney, who led the organization over the past year.
“Denni Cheney assisted the Bridge in an important time of transition. Her leadership helped the organization continue to support workforce development through partnerships with professional education, post-secondary education, and the business community.” Scott said.
The Bridge continues to demonstrate the power of true partnership between the business community and education leaders to help young people become New Mexico’s future labor force, entrepreneurs, innovators and civic leaders.
The Bridge laid the foundation for the state’s first early college high school, Arrowhead Park Early College High School in Las Cruces, and now supports four more statewide. The organization and its network of 25 public and private partners is building a “community of mentors” for students through hands-on business internships, advancing student-focused teacher training and expanding parents’ capacity as strong mentors for their children.
To learn more about The Bridge of Southern New Mexico, visit www.thebridgeofsnm.com.
Information from DACC