C'YA Adds LANL Employee to Board, Seeks Nominations

Champions of Youth Ambitions announced on December 9 that Jeremy Herrera, a Los Alamos National Laboratory employee and two year volunteer with the organization, has joined its board of directors. The appointment brings a staff perspective from one of the county's largest employers into an organization that is currently soliciting nominations for its CommUNITY Asset Awards, a program meant to spotlight community contributions.

Herrera has volunteered with C'YA for two years, and his appointment follows routine board selection practices within local nonprofits that seek volunteers who understand both program operations and community needs. C'YA leadership described Herrera as well positioned to contribute to board deliberations. Herrera said he wanted to get involved to help improve the community where he lives and works. The organization also noted that the CommUNITY Asset Awards nomination process is ongoing and encouraged continued public participation.

For Los Alamos County residents, the appointment matters in several practical ways. Board membership can influence program priorities, fundraising strategy, and partnerships with institutions such as Los Alamos National Laboratory. Having board members who work at the laboratory can facilitate coordination on youth engagement initiatives, volunteer recruitment, and the alignment of resources with local needs. The timing of the appointment during an active nominations period could shape how the awards program frames community assets and which projects or organizations receive recognition.

The development also underscores broader questions about nonprofit governance and civic engagement in small communities where a major employer plays a central role. Transparent selection practices, clear conflict of interest policies, and open invitations for volunteer participation help maintain public trust as nonprofits expand collaboration with institutional partners.

Residents interested in the CommUNITY Asset Awards nomination process are encouraged to follow C'YA announcements and consider submitting nominations or volunteering. The organization cited ongoing community engagement as central to its work, and the new board appointment signals an intent to deepen local involvement across the county.