Message from the Executive Director

Region 9 • A Community Member • Educating • Supporting • Serving

It has been an honor to have been entrusted with the privilege of serving as the Executive Director of Region 9. To have had the opportunity to lead this outstanding organization, while following in the footsteps of such courageous, visionary, and forward-thinking leaders as Sandy Gladden and Cathy Jones Parks, is something I have never taken lightly.

The foundation they established continues to permeate the culture of Region 9 today. Their leadership, commitment, and vision helped shape an organization grounded in innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering dedication to education and the communities we serve. It is especially meaningful to see Sandy Gladden’s lasting legacy honored through the naming of our new Head Start and Home Visiting building, the Region 9 Sandy Gladden Early Childhood Center. This recognition is a fitting tribute to a leader whose influence continues to be felt throughout our organization and the many lives she touched.

Over the past ten years, Region 9 has experienced tremendous growth and success. Yet, what makes this organization truly exceptional is not simply how much we have grown, but how we have grown. Throughout this period of expansion, we have remained committed to hiring the best-quality individuals who love being part of an innovative, responsive, and agile organization. We have faced and embraced change, adapted to an increasingly complex and frequently evolving educational environment, and continued to find new and better ways to support the schools, educators, children, and families who depend on us.

Today, Region 9 has established itself as the Premier Educational Cooperative in New Mexico. Region 9 is a recognized leader in education throughout New Mexico. This achievement is a testament to the vision of those who came before us, the partnerships we have built, and, most importantly, the people who make this organization what it is every day.

As I reflect on my time serving as Executive Director, I am filled with gratitude and pride. It has been a privilege to work alongside an exceptionally talented team of professionals who approach their work with dedication, pride, and a commitment to quality. Every day, Region 9 is making a difference in support of education in Lincoln County and communities across the entire state of New Mexico.

I am excited and confident that the future of Region 9 is strong. The leadership potential, ownership, passion, and commitment of the people who make up this organization have positioned Region 9 to continue to be highly successful. There are amazing unknown opportunities ahead that I know the next generation of Region 9 will meet head-on. I have every confidence that Region 9 will continue to flourish, embrace innovation, lead with purpose, and serve as an example for educational cooperatives and organizations across New Mexico and beyond for many years to come.

To the staff, council members, educational partners, school districts, and communities who have been part of this journey, thank you for your trust, collaboration, and commitment to our shared mission. The accomplishments of Region 9 belong to all of you.

With gratitude,

Bryan Dooley

Bryan Dooley
Executive Director
Region 9 Education Cooperative