Valerie Tsosie has been appointed to the Policy Advisory Council of the Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD). Emily Kaltenbach, ALTSD Cabinet Secretary, expressed her enthusiasm for Tsosie's inclusion, stating, "We are honored to welcome Valerie to the Policy Advisory Council. 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."
Tsosie is a member of the Navajo Nation and has focused her career on enhancing Native voices within care systems and improving access to essential services for elders. She founded the So’ Tsoh Foundation, a nonprofit that aids cross-generational caregivers around the Navajo Nation. Known for her strategic leadership and commitment to community-driven solutions, Tsosie is expected to bring significant contributions to her new role.
Expressing gratitude for her appointment, Tsosie said, "I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve on this council and help elevate the voices of Native elders and communities. 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."
In her capacity as a PAC member, Tsosie will assist in formulating recommendations and promoting awareness of department initiatives aimed at better serving New Mexico's aging population.
