Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has appointed Mariana Padilla as the new Cabinet Secretary for the New Mexico Public Education Department. Padilla, who has been the director of the New Mexico Children’s Cabinet and served as the governor’s senior education policy advisor, will focus on enhancing academic achievement, attendance, and student engagement. She replaces Dr. Arsenio Romero, who resigned amid his candidacy for the presidency of New Mexico State University. Padilla has been instrumental in various educational initiatives, including the establishment of the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department and a statewide literacy initiative. Governor Lujan Grisham expressed confidence in Padilla’s ability to drive positive change in New Mexico's education system, citing her deep roots in the community and commitment to children and families. Padilla emphasized her honor in the appointment and her commitment to fostering supportive school environments for all students.