Newsletter: April 2026

 

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

 

 

Greetings everyone, I hope this message finds you all in good health and happiness. Our second deadline is fast approaching. This will be our final round of funding for 2026. Our next application deadline is May 8, 2026. We will be accepting applications for our Traditional priority areas. As a reminder, our traditional priority areas include language preservation and revitalization, traditional architecture and building, sustainable agriculture, traditional arts and crafts instruction, tribal and ancestral history, oral histories and storytelling, youth education and leadership and intercultural/intergenerational exchange and education. If you have any questions about how to submit your application, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. You can apply directly online through our website portal, or you can download an application from our website and then email me your application package. My email address is executivedirector@chamiza.org.

I hope everyone is having a great spring. Be well and stay safe!

Sincerely,

Dr. Amanda J. Montoya

 

 

 

 

2026 Groundworks NM Conference

Our Executive Director recently attended the 4th Annual Social Sector Conference hosted by Groundworks New Mexico at the Albuquerque Marriott Uptown, a dynamic gathering of changemakers from across the state. The event offered a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with longtime colleagues while also forging new relationships with leaders working across New Mexico’s social sector. Bringing together a diverse network of organizations, the conference sparked important conversations around the most pressing challenges facing our communities today, from the political landscape to the rapid rise of artificial intelligence and ongoing environmental concerns. Just as importantly, it created a space where attendees could speak openly and honestly about the uncertainties and shifts of the past year. A standout moment was the plenary session featuring Kristi Dorr, Executive Director of Groundworks NM, in conversation with Vu Le of Nonprofit AF fame. It was an engaging, entertaining and thought-provoking dialogue that resonated deeply with attendees. Overall, the conference was not only informative, but energizing, leaving participants inspired, connected, and ready to continue the work ahead.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Keres Children’s Learning Center

 Groundbreaking Ceremony

 

 

On March 31, 2026, our Executive Director, Dr. Montoya, had the honor of attending the KCLC Groundbreaking Ceremony for their new school in Cochiti Pueblo, a powerful and long-awaited milestone. More than 13 years ago, the Chamiza Foundation was among the very first supporters to help bring KCLC’s vision to life, making this moment especially meaningful.

This groundbreaking represents far more than the start of construction, it is a celebration of perseverance, community, and shared purpose. It reflects the unwavering dedication of KCLC families, staff, Cochiti Pueblo tribal leadership, and committed partners who believe deeply in the transformative power of language, culture, and education.