Melissa Marie Lopez has earned a reputation as an innovative, driven, solutions-focused Executive Director with a stellar background in healthcare and holistic wellness, and a proven record of building and managing complex operational efforts. Melissa builds and leads high-performing teams, manages complex budgets, and implements effective programs to improve people’s lives. She is well-versed in financial control, strategic alliance, operational management, and collaborative leadership.

Since 2020, Melissa has spearheaded the growth of the New Mexico Doula Association (NMDA) as the first Executive Director, a vital community-based organization for doulas across New Mexico. She has championed and advocated for birth and reproductive justice movements, resulting in policies and systemic changes that protect reproductive health and minimize maternal morbidity, specifically for black and indigenous communities. Melissa worked tirelessly to devise and execute strategic plans to raise awareness of NMDA’s mission and advocacy initiatives, which increased stakeholder and donors’ engagement and secured $200K+ in grant funding. She leveraged exceptional communication and interpersonal strengths to foster productive partnerships with healthcare providers, community organizations, and government officials.

Melissa is also the Founder/GM of Las Cruces Doula, LLC, a wellness practice that provides the full spectrum of doula services, incorporating traditional and evidence-based approaches to support clients during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also serves as Project Partner at UNM Health Sciences, where she collaborated with Dr. Pilar San Juan on an NIH health study entitled “Bringing Equity in Healthcare through the Extended Attendance of Risk-reduction Doulas for Perinatal Substance Use Disorder (BEing HEARD).” Together, they are pursuing $3.8M in funding to contract risk-reduction doulas and community health workers to work with the Milagro Program and UNM for the project and provide ongoing consultation and project support.

Melissa holds a Master of Business Administration from New Mexico State University, and a Bachelor of Business Administration/Concentration in Project Management from Colorado Technical University. As a committed member of the local community, Melissa serves on the New Mexico Breastfeeding Task Force (Las Cruces Chapter) and is Executive Director of the New Mexico Doula Association. In her spare time, Melissa enjoys gardening, meditation, and time with her family.

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Shay is a dynamic advocate whose extensive work spans various health and community boards, including the Health Coalition Region 6 and La Piñon. Her diverse experience includes roles in parent councils, community health initiatives and serving as a healthcare nurse for over a decade. Shay’s multifaceted background in addiction recovery and cannabis use in medical settings underscores her commitment to comprehensive and inclusive care. 

Ome’s rich background in community activism and their leadership with the Zuni Mountain Sanctuary reflect a deep understanding of allyship and reproductive justice. Their work in diverse areas such as queer activism, intentional living, and radical change aligns with NMDA’s mission to create inclusive and supportive spaces for all.

Shahid brings a wealth of knowledge from his roles in food sovereignty and community education at Taylor Hood Farms. His leadership on the New Mexico Agrarian Commons board, combined with his dedication to supporting marginalized communities, will help NMDA cultivate deeper connections and more impactful initiatives.

Owen’s work as an artist, care-worker, and sex-worker advocate is driven by a commitment to liberation and self-determination. Their integrative approach to health and community building, alongside their passion for decolonizing practices, will bring transformative energy to our board.

Alicia’s experience as a bilingual, Indigenous Mexican American woman positions her to bridge cultural gaps and advocate for inclusive support services. Her work with Native Health Initiative and Junior League of Albuquerque showcases her dedication to advancing meaningful and sustainable change in our communities.

Daena Horner, (she/they) is an educator, activist, and herbalist. They have founded and participated in multiple reproductive justice-centered collectives and grassroots projects focused on increasing body literacy and collective autonomy through creating accessible curriculums, peer-to-peer support networks, community-led research and educational materials that center the reproductive needs and desires of the people being served.

Britt, a sixth-generation New Mexican and dedicated doula, brings a deep connection to our state’s cultural heritage. Her passion for supporting birthing people through compassionate, culturally-informed care aligns with NMDA’s vision of a just and equitable healthcare system.