Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board (CPOAB) Member Profiles

Aaron Calderon, Chair

Aaron Calderon is a proud veteran of the United States Army, having served in various states across the country. After his military service, he worked in Texas for Baylor Scott and White Healthcare before settling back in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he has lived for the past 7 years. Currently, Mr. Calderon works as a manager of clinic operations at Presbyterian Healthcare Services. With his background and passion for community service, Mr. Calderon wants to bring his expertise to the Citizens of Albuquerque as a member of the CPOA Board. His goal is to ensure a fair and transparent oversight process for the Albuquerque Police Department, to enhance the relationship between the police and the residents. Mr. Calderon believes that the APD has greatly improved and has made changes in their policies and training, focusing on de-escalating situations and using force only as a last resort.

Email: [email protected]

Term:  Initial Appointment 03-06-2023, Expires 02-02-2026

Rowan Wymark, Vice Chair

Ms. Wymark is a dedicated community member and former educator who has lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico for the past thirty-two years. During her time in Albuquerque, she has been actively involved in various community organizations, including serving as co-chair for the Valley Area Command Community Policing Council for seven years and as a board member for the Downtown Neighborhoods Association. She is currently serving on the Mayor’s Homeless Advisory Council and on Lew Wallace Elementary School’s Community Committee as a community member. Ms. Wymark's professional background includes working as a special education teacher with Albuquerque Public Schools, where she also served as the vice president for elementary teachers with the Albuquerque Teachers Federation for approximately seven years. Additionally, she was a board member on the Central Labor Council for several years. Originally from the UK, Ms. Wymark has lived in the US for forty-three years and considers it her home. She believes in fairness, transparency, and accountability in all aspects of life, including policing. If she is appointed to the CPOAB, she sees the importance of keeping the police honest and committed to fairness, while also ensuring that undue violence towards civilians is not tolerated. She believes that the Civilian Police Oversight Agency (CPOA) plays a crucial role in investigating civilian complaints regarding the use of force by the police and that it is the CPOAB's responsibility to support the CPOA in establishing proper grounds for these complaints. As a member of the CPOAB, Ms. Wymark sees her role as representing the Albuquerque community and their concerns regarding police behavior within the Albuquerque Police Department (APD). She understands the importance of being impartial and transparent in her decision-making and believes that it is crucial to be well-informed of the methodologies and approaches of the APD. As a community member herself, Ms. Wymark feels that it is her right and responsibility to speak out on community concerns according to her own perceptions.

Email: [email protected]

Term:  Initial Appointment 04-03-2023, Expires 02-02-2026

Zander Bolyanatz

Zander Bolyanatz, a senior project manager, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to community service, making him uniquely qualified for this role. Beyond his professional endeavors, he has dedicated over five years to volunteering with local coops, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, and served as an assistant cheer coach in the Chicago area. His interest in serving on the CPOAB arises from a longstanding commitment to Albuquerque, police tactics, and the public perception of law enforcement. Zander emphasizes a unique perspective, highlighting his ability to view situations from multiple angles and manage large timelines for improvement and change.  Recognizing the cornerstone of "good" community relationships as communication, Mr. Bolyanatz emphasizes the need for open dialogue between law enforcement and all communities in Albuquerque. His extensive experience equips him with the skills to understand the intricacies of collaborative discussions, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness of both points of view to communities and their leaders. In acknowledging the challenges within the current period, Mr. Bolyanatz proposes a proactive approach: "It's not to excuse law enforcement's actions but to explain." He firmly believes that fostering understanding will contribute to more effective communication and, ultimately, improve community-police relationships.

Email: [email protected]

Term:  Initial Appointment 12-04-2023, Expires 02-02-2024; Reappointment 01-22-2024, Expires 02-02-2027

Eduardo Budanauro

Eduardo Budanauro brings a balanced perspective to the Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board, grounded in his understanding of both the responsibilities of law enforcement and the concerns of the public, particularly from a minority viewpoint. His corporate experience has honed his skills in consensus-building, where he has successfully mediated discussions among decision-makers, even in heated situations. Mr. Budanauro believes that the Board should play a crucial role in assisting police management by communicating community concerns and integrating them into ongoing training at the police academy. He also emphasizes the importance of the Board as a conduit for public voices, ensuring that citizens can express their concerns without fear of retaliation. Committed to fostering collaboration between the community and the police, Mr. Budanauro stresses that crime and policing are shared responsibilities, requiring the active involvement of both the public and law enforcement to ensure the safety and wellbeing of Albuquerque.

Email: [email protected]

Term:  Initial Appointment 09-04-2024, Expires 02-02-2027

Gail Oliver

Ms. Oliver, a retired Board member and chairman of Gordon Bernell Charter School at the Albuquerque Metropolitan Detention Center and a Board Member of Peanut Butter and Jelly Family Services, offers a distinctive perspective on the significance of impartiality. Drawing from her experience in the Corrections Department, she underscores the recognition of multiple sides to every story and the capacity to perceive situations from different angles. Ms. Oliver takes pride in her impartial approach, free from preconceived ideas, positioning herself as a valuable resource that listens without judgment. She draws attention to her background in a dynamic Corrections Department setting, acknowledging the tendency to neglect communication with the public during intense situations. Ms. Oliver confidently asserts her proficiency in effectively communicating with diverse segments of the public.

Email: [email protected]

Term:  Initial Appointment 12-04-2023, Expires 02-02-2026

Submit your Application to City Council if you are interested in becoming a CPOA Board Member.