City Hires New Director for Equity and Inclusion

The Office of Equity and Inclusion works to develop a workforce that is representative of our community, increase local purchasing and doing business with minority-owned businesses, ensure that City investments are prioritized for areas that have been historically under invested, and to support City Government to deliver services in a way that centers equity. Ms. Lara will lead the department as the City continues this vital work.

“We created the Office of Equity and Inclusion to better serve our diverse community, and because we believe that Albuquerque can be a national role model for racial equity and social justice,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “I am grateful that Sonya is joining our team to lead this important work as we move our city forward.”

Sonya Lara, MPA, Director of Equity and Inclusion:

Sonya Lara is a servant leader committed to advancing strategies that decrease economic disparity and increase honor and dignity among communities that have been marginalized. She champions social impact in both her professional and volunteer faith-based work, helping people and organizations actualize community goals that promote family stability and increase educational opportunity.

Previous to joining the City of Albuquerque, Ms. Lara was the Senior Director of Community Impact at the United Way of North Central New Mexico, where she convened and connected regional leaders to support and elevate families. A proud Lobo, Sonya completed her bachelor’s and master’s of public administration at the University of New Mexico.