New Mexico Department of Tourism Secretary Jen Paul Schroer has been designated to head the Aging and Long-Term Services Department, succeeding Katrina Hotrum-Lopez, who retired in July, according to a press release. Lancing Adams, the existing development director, will take on the role of acting tourism secretary during this transition.
"I am honored to champion the needs of New Mexico seniors as the new cabinet secretary of Aging and Long-Term Services," Schroer said. "Every New Mexican, at every age, deserves access to quality healthcare."
Schroer led New Mexico's COVID-19 pandemic communication efforts in 2020, overseeing the implementation of the Department of Health's strategy for vaccine distribution and registration technology deployment. This strategy aimed at ensuring an alignment between vaccine supply and demand, with a special emphasis on prioritizing the state's most vulnerable population, particularly seniors, the release stated.
“I see great opportunity in improving how the state assists older adults and their caregivers in maintaining independence, living safely and autonomously. I appreciate the governor’s confidence as I take a disciplined approach to reaching the department’s true potential,” Schroer said.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said Schroer has been a valuable member of her cabinet.
“She has a long history of service to New Mexico that will inform her decisions leading a new department. As an emerging health care leader, Schroer knows how to get things done and finds creative ways to problem solve – attributes that will serve New Mexicans who use the services in the Aging and Long-Term Services Department well. I look forward to working with her in this new role,” Lujan Grisham said.
Schroer actively participates in various interdisciplinary task forces, such as the CYFD Transformation leadership team, where she oversees the implementation of technological solutions to aid foster families and social workers. Additionally, she contributes to workforce recruitment strategies for the PED and DOH. Moreover, her extensive involvement includes being nominated by President Joe Biden to serve on the U.S. Route 66 Centennial Commission, the release stated.