Marisa Magallanez Transitions to Leadership Role in Nonprofits

Marisa Magallanez has officially taken the helm as president and CEO of the Albuquerque Community Foundation and the New Mexico Community Trust as of January 1, 2024. Her journey from an undergraduate flamenco class at the University of New Mexico to nonprofit leadership illustrates her deep commitment to community and social impact.

Magallanez’s initial interest in flamenco led her to a vibrant artistic community in Albuquerque, where she first entered the nonprofit sector as an intern at the National Institute of Flamenco. This experience proved transformative, igniting a passion for community engagement. Reflecting on her early days, she stated, “I found myself in this place where I discovered a sense of community that I was really craving.”

After earning her degree in Women’s Studies, she pursued an MBA at the Anderson School of Management, concentrating in policy and planning. Although uncertain about her future, she was drawn to the operational aspects of nonprofits. “I had no idea what I wanted to do,” Magallanez admitted. “But I was intrigued by the structure of a nonprofit.”

Upon graduating in 2006, she joined the National Institute of Flamenco as its finance manager. As she moved through various roles in marketing and development, her decision to focus on the nonprofit sector surprised her family. “I remember telling my mom and dad, ‘I am going to work for a nonprofit,’ and they were like, ‘What? You just got an MBA,’” she recalled with laughter. Yet, Magallanez felt a strong sense of purpose guiding her choices over the past 14 years.

Her deep connection to New Mexico, where she grew up in Mesquite and spent time in Española, shapes her leadership approach. Magallanez stated, “New Mexico is an incredible place. The complexity of our culture, our land, and our identities really matters.” She views her work not merely as a job but as a calling, emphasizing the importance of serving her home state.

In her new role, Magallanez believes in leading authentically and with an open heart. “Leading authentically, trying to do the best that I can for our community, that is what success looks like to me,” she explained. This philosophy extends to everyone involved, from the communities served to the donors and nonprofit partners.

Recognizing the challenges of leadership, she remains committed to an authentic leadership style grounded in purpose. “Community foundations are vibrant, dynamic organizations,” she noted. “They are made up of incredible people—donors with diverse backgrounds, nonprofits doing amazing work, and staff deeply committed to impact.”

For current students, Magallanez offers valuable advice drawn from her own experiences. “These times can feel divisive or isolating,” she said. “Find your community—and find more than one. Don’t be afraid to follow your instincts and passions, even if they don’t make sense to everyone around you.”

Magallanez’s journey exemplifies how curiosity, community, and purpose can lead to a meaningful career. Her path from a flamenco classroom to leading philanthropic institutions highlights the importance of pursuing what resonates deeply, even when the future seems uncertain. As she embarks on this new chapter, Magallanez is poised to make a significant impact in New Mexico’s nonprofit landscape.