FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ALTSD Contact
Joey Long, PhD
Public Information Officer
Joey.long@altsd.nm.gov
June 3, 2025
Valerie Tsosie joins ALTSD Policy Advisory Council
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) is excited to announce the appointment of Valerie Tsosie as a new member of the ALTSD Policy Advisory Committee (PAC).
"We are honored to welcome Valerie to the Policy Advisory Council,” said Emily Kaltenbach, ALTSD Cabinet Secretary. “Her perspective will be invaluable as we work to center equity and cultural respect in all we do, especially for Native elders and their families.”
A member of the Navajo Nation, Tsosie has dedicated her career to amplifying Native voices in systems of care and expanding access to essential services for elders. She is the founder of the So’ Tsoh Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports cross-generational caregivers in and around the Navajo Nation. A strategic and visionary leader, Tsosie brings a deep commitment to community-driven solutions and a joyful, compassionate approach to service.
"I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve on this council and help elevate the voices of Native elders and communities,” said Valerie Tsosie. “As a Diné woman and lifelong advocate for our elders, I am excited to help ensure our voices are heard and respected at the state level. I look forward to continuing the work across the state to improve services and outcomes for our communities.”
As a PAC member, Tsosie will participate in the development of recommendations and help raise awareness of the department's initiatives to better serve New Mexico's aging and long-term care community.
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The New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) was established in 2004 to provide advocacy, support, and resources for seniors and adults with disabilities. The department oversees the state’s Area Agencies on Aging to elevate the quality of care at senior centers, offers advocacy through the Long-Term Care Ombudsman volunteer program, and provides intervention through the agency’s national award-winning Adult Protective Services. Additionally, ALTSD houses the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Center, which offers options counseling, education, and connection to resources. For more information about ALTSD, visit aging.nm.gov or follow us on Facebook, X, andInstagram@NewMexicoAging.