Meet The Team

Chandra's passion for working with Moms and babies strongly developed in her childhood, and it has grown even deeper since she became a nurse. She was born and raised in Albuquerque, NM where she regularly sought out ways to serve her community. In 2019, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to attend Oral Roberts University where she received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 2012. After graduation, she wasted no time in continuing her service and went directly to floor nursing as a mother-baby nurse. This role allowed her the opportunity to progressively move into Nursing Education and Nurse Home Visiting. Her passion continued to grow in health promotion and primary prevention. She loves giving families the tools they need to succeed in parenthood. Ultimately, her family, our beautiful mountains and skies, and of course, the green chile, brought her back last year. She is thrilled to be home and even more excited to serve alongside the fantastic team of Family Connects New Mexico.

Cynthia relocated from the Golden State to the Land of Enchantment in 2018. Her love of children and families began at an early age and has developed over the years, leading her to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology as well as a minor in Criminal Justice. She has extensive knowledge assisting youth and families within behavioral health and special education environments. Her genuine interest in the well-being of her community has led her to the wonderful Family Connects New Mexico team. In her leisure time, Cynthia delights in soul nurturing activities such as journaling, exploring the wilderness, and spending time with family, friends, and her pup.

Dana graduated from the University of New Mexico in 2011 with a bachelor's degree in the Science of Nursing. From there, Dana has enjoyed 12 years of practicing nursing in the pediatric and neonatal inpatient setting. Here, she quickly discovered a great passion for providing care to newborn babies and their families. Dana says there is no greater professional joy than to help a new parent care for, feed and bond with their new baby! While practicing in the hospital, Dana also spent 6 years serving as an educator, during which time she was able to train and support new and existing nursing staff, implement evidence-based practice as well as create patient education materials for the families of newborn babies. Dana is excited to be a part of the Family Connects NM team where she can continue to support and educate her favorite patient population in their homes. During her time away from work, Dana enjoys spending time with family and friends, food and indoor cycling.

Stephanie brings over 15 years of nursing experience to the Family Connects New Mexico team. She began her career as a nurse at the University of New Mexico Hospital Trauma/Surgical/Burn Intensive Care Unit. She was recognized for her work in the ICU as Distinguished Nurse of the year and received an Excellence in Critical Care Nursing award. Her focus changed from adult critical care to neonatal care in January 2020. The next two years were spent helping new babies and their families thrive in the UNMH Intermediate Care Nursery. The experience caring for adults and neonates in the hospital setting has prepared her for the home visiting services Family Connects provides. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her family, attending concerts/sporting events, and snuggling with her dog, Kenzie.