New Assistant Commissioner of Communications Joey Keefe
From the Office of the Land Commissioner:
SANTA FE — Commissioner of Public Lands Stephanie Garcia Richard announced today that she has hired Joey Keefe as Assistant Commissioner of Communications and Francesca Di Palma as Director of Constituent Services.
“I am thrilled to welcome Joey and Francesca to the land office! Joey’s background in land and conservation issues is a perfect fit for the good work we’re doing here at the land office to steward our natural resources,” Commissioner Garcia Richard said. Francesca has dealt with all manner of constituent issues including economic development and affordable housing, two primary initiatives for my administration! Their background and credentials will serve the state well.”
Keefe comes to the State Land Office after managing communications at New Mexico Wild, a statewide nonprofit focused on public land policy at the state and federal levels. Previously, he served as Communications Director for New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver. He also has held communications positions for private companies, local government agencies and various political campaigns. Keefe was born and raised in Albuquerque.
“I’m very excited for the opportunity to work for an executive officeholder who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and helped the State Land Office achieve record revenues for New Mexico’s kids and families,” Keefe said. “There is still a lot of work to do, and I’m ready to hit the ground running.”
New Director of Constituent Services Francesca Di Palma
Di Palma most recently worked for U.S. Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez as a Field Representative and Constituent Services Representative. Before that, she performed similar roles in the office of retired U.S. Sen. Tom Udall. She also has substantial experience in political field organizing and community outreach. Di Palma was born and raised in Santa Fe.
“Commissioner Garcia Richard has surpassed even the highest expectations and it’s an honor to work alongside her to provide constituents and state trust land beneficiaries with the best service possible,” Di Palma said. “In my short time here, I’ve been impressed with how efficient and effective State Land Office team members are on a daily basis. We are committed to continuing the great work.”
