On behalf of the Albuquerque Community Foundation Board of Trustees, we are writing today with news that marks a historic moment for the Foundation. We are excited to share that, effective January 1, 2026, Marisa Magallanez will become President and CEO.

After two decades of extraordinary service, Randy Royster will conclude his tenure as President and CEO at the end of this year. Under Randy’s visionary leadership, the Foundation has grown into a trusted philanthropic institution, stewarding nearly $170 million in assets and expanding its reach and impact across the region. His legacy of generosity, integrity, and unwavering dedication to community will continue to shape the Foundation for years to come.

Looking ahead, we are excited for Marisa’s leadership of both the Foundation and of New Mexico Community Trust, our statewide philanthropic organization. Marisa currently serves as the Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer and brings two decades of leadership in nonprofit management, arts and culture, and institutional philanthropy. A native New Mexican, she embodies a deep commitment to equity, community partnerships, and the values that have guided the Foundation since its founding.

Importantly, this decision followed a comprehensive, thoughtful, and inclusive CEO selection process. Working in partnership with Koya Partners, a national executive search firm specializing in mission-driven leadership, we engaged in an extensive regional search that included input from board members, staff, donors, and community stakeholders. As a result of this process, the board unanimously selected Marisa for the role. To our community, we want to acknowledge the strong relationships many of you have built with the Foundation over the years. Steady presence and principled leadership have helped make the Foundation what it is today—and have earned the deep trust of donors and partners across New Mexico. We are grateful for your partnership during this time of transition and are confident that Marisa’s leadership will honor and extend this trust in meaningful ways.

On behalf of the entire Board of Trustees, thank you for being part of the Foundation’s community. Together, we will honor Randy’s remarkable contributions and move forward with confidence under Marisa’s leadership.

With appreciation,