Stephanie Maez

About Stephanie Maez

Maez is a dedicated executive level professional with a personal passion and connection to public service with an emphasis on social justice issues. Maez is focused on systemic change making through philanthropy, strategic communications, community engagement, research, and advocacy. Respected for 20 years as a leader in the nonprofit, government, and private sectors. Maez is a former New Mexico State Legislator and Senior Fellow for the Topos Partnership, previously worked as Executive Director for ProgressNow New Mexico, CEO for the Center for Civic Policy, and served in former New Mexico Governor Richardson’s administration. As a lawmaker, Maez sponsored and supported a slate of innovative social justice policy proposals. She holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, with an emphasis in public policy, and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Political Science from the University of New Mexico. Currently Maez is the Outdoor Foundation\'s Executive Director where she is focused on grant-making grounded in creating equitable access to the outdoors for all and protecting our planet. Through this work, and supporting critical systems change efforts via research and policy, the Outdoor Foundation seeks to help improve outcomes on issues such as health and wellness, public safety, juvenile incarceration, environmental stewardship, etc. A large piece of her work is helping to address outdoor equity barriers for historically underrepresented communities through partnerships with key funders and stakeholders to expand the Outdoor Foundation\'s Thrive Outside initiative (OF\'s sole grantmaking vehicle) from four community regions to 13 regions in two years through robust strategic communications and resource development efforts, which has led to the generation of millions of dollars in new grant-making revenue. Known as an energetic, thoughtful and collaborative leader who works effectively with cross-functional departments, team members and external sectors to catalyze opportunities emerging from existing programs and future opportunities. Cultivating authentic relationships to earn and nurture trust is at the heart of her work style internally and externally. This trust-based leadership approach is rooted in a culture of inclusion, equity, innovation, and mindfulness, which has led to successful organizational outcomes and personal/professional relationships. Having lived experience in the social justice space, Maez is mission driven with a focused and tireless work ethic.

Experience

1. Executive Director

   Outdoor Foundation

   Nov 2021 — Present

Education

• The University of New Mexico

  Master's degree, Public Administration

  2009 — 2013