After 12 years as executive director of the New Mexico Activities Association, Sally Marquez has announced her retirement. 

“It has been my honor to serve the schools and students of New Mexico, but it is time to step away,” said Marquez.

The NMAA Board of Directors voted to name Dusty Young the new executive director of the NMAA. Young was serving as NMAA Associate Director. He will begin his position as NMAA Executive Director on November 1.

Marquez leaves a remarkable legacy of leadership, and commitment to student-athletes across the state. Under her leadership, thousands of student athletes each year have benefitted from the opportunities given in education-based athletics. Marquez has also made an impact on education nationally.  She was elected by the National Federation of High Schools Board of Directors to the position of National Federation of State High School Associations president for 2022-2023.

“Serving as the Executive Director of the NMAA has been the greatest honor of my career,” said Marquez. “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside passionate educators, coaches, and students. As I prepare to enter this new chapter, I look forward to watching the continued growth and success of high school athletics and activities in New Mexico.”

“Sally has been a cornerstone of school activities in New Mexico,” said NMAA Board President Anthony Casados. “She is a tireless supporter for students and staff who participate in athletics and other activities throughout the state.  Sally will be missed, and I wish her the absolute best in the next phase of her life.”

Marquez has served as executive director of the NMAA since September 2012. She began her career at the NMAA in 2004 as associate director and was promoted to assistant executive director in July 2011. In addition to the day-to-day operations of the NMAA, Marquez handles the sports of basketball, spirit, and volleyball.

“For decades our New Mexico students have benefited from Ms. Marquez’s sound leadership,” said Gadsden Independent School District Superintendent Travis Dempsey. “From guiding us through the COVID pandemic to launching E-Sports, girls wrestling, powerlifting, and marching band, she has been a true advocate for students and entire communities. While replacing her is nearly impossible she has modeled for us the high standards of integrity, honesty, and professionalism that we will continue to strive for. I wish her the very best as she transitions into the next chapter of her journey.”

As NMAA Executive Director, participation has increased, and sportsmanship improved with the Compete with Class Initiative and Two Strikes Sportsmanship Bylaw. In addition to her service on the NFHS Board of Directors, Marquez has been a member of several other NFHS committees, including Equity Committee, Volleyball Rules Committee, Basketball Rules Committee, Strategic Planning Committee, Summer Meeting Planning Committee, NFHS Appeals Committee, and the NFHS Foundation Board of Directors.

“Sally's impact on the NMAA and all of its statewide outreach has made a significant difference in the lives of New Mexicans,” said Lieutenant Governor of New Mexico Howie Morales. “Her ability to navigate through the most challenging of times, while keeping her focus on children, demonstrated her strength and understanding of the importance of student engagement, access to participation and achievement.”

Prior to joining the NMAA, Marquez held a variety of positions in New Mexico, Virginia and Texas, including mathematics teacher, dean of students, assistant principal and director of personnel.  Among her coaching positions, Marquez coached girls and boys basketball, track and field, and soccer.  Marquez is in her 40th year of education. A graduate of Manzano High School in Albuquerque, Marquez was a three-sport athlete (volleyball, basketball, track and field).  She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of New Mexico and her master’s degree from Virginia Tech University.  She was a four-year member of the women’s basketball team at UNM.  She was inducted into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame in 2004.