Empowering Physicians for Effective Policy Engagement
The GAMA Advocacy Academy is a high-impact, interactive training designed to equip physicians with the tools, strategies, and confidence to be effective advocates at the state and local levels. Whether you’re new to public policy or looking to elevate your influence, this half-day experience provides practical insights and hands-on opportunities to sharpen your skills, deepen your understanding of the legislative process, and connect with fellow medical professionals committed to shaping healthcare in New Mexico.
Next Session:
Saturday, October 25
8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Greater Albuquerque Association of REALTORS® Event Center
This exclusive training is open to GAMA members only, and registration is complimentary.
Academy Overview
Structured as a fast-paced, in-person workshop, the Advocacy Academy blends core legislative knowledge with strategic communication training, culminating in a real-world opportunity to join a statewide advocacy campaign.
Understanding the Legislative Process
We begin by pulling back the curtain on the New Mexico Legislature. In this session, you’ll gain a working understanding of how laws are made, from how bills move through committees to how fiscal impact reports influence policy outcomes. We will introduce you to key tools for tracking legislation, reading proposed bills, and understanding the structure and timelines that shape healthcare policy in Santa Fe.
And this is not just lecture, it is hands-on learning. You will work in small groups to identify real legislation and follow its path through the system. By the end of the session, you will be equipped to engage confidently with the legislative process and know exactly where and how your voice matters.
Crafting and Delivering Your Message
Once you understand the system, it’s time to learn how to influence it. This session focuses on developing the advocacy skills that move decision-makers: effective storytelling, persuasive messaging, and clear asks. You’ll get a chance to workshop your own 30-second elevator pitch and practice delivering it in front of your peers with supportive coaching along the way.
Whether you’re preparing for a Capitol hallway encounter or a Zoom meeting with a legislator, this module will help you communicate with confidence, clarity, and impact.
Advocacy in Action: Patient First New Mexico
In our final session, we move from training to activation. You’ll be introduced to Patient First New Mexico—a statewide, physician-powered initiative committed to improving healthcare access, transparency, and patient-centered reform. You’ll learn how to plug into the campaign as a credible, trusted voice and help shift the narrative around healthcare in New Mexico.
You will also draft your own short message of support and brainstorm ways to bring the campaign into your practice or professional network. You will leave with clear next steps and tools to continue your advocacy beyond the Academy.
You will dive into storytelling techniques, practice shaping persuasive messages, and get personalized feedback on your advocacy style. One highlight? Our real-time elevator pitch challenge, where you will test out your message in front of your peers and get the chance to refine it in a supportive setting.
We will also explore grassroots strategies that go beyond the Capitol and help shift public narratives in your community. You will leave with a stronger voice, a clearer message, and a network of fellow advocates ready to make change alongside you.
What You Will Gain
Knowledge:
Learn How Policy is Made
Gain an understanding of how the New Mexico legislature, governor, and state agencies create and implement public policy.
Skills:
Become a Strong Advocate
Impact public policy by effectively communicating with policymakers, navigating public policy processes, and understanding how healthcare policies impact you.
Relationships:
Build a Winning Team
Build relationships with colleagues, legislators, and advocates that can help guide you as you become an effective advocate for medicine.
What Participants Are Saying
The 2024 Advocacy Academy earned rave reviews, with 100% of surveyed participants rating the experience as “Excellent."
“I loved the exercise where we got to practice our elevator pitches, it was empowering and eye-opening.”
“The back-and-forth discussion and mock bill workshopping made everything click.”
“Interaction was key. It wasn’t just a lecture, it was real, hands-on learning.”
Meet the Instructors
Jason Espinoza
Executive Director of the GAMA and Co-Owner of KW Consulting
Jason is a veteran government affairs professional with over a 15 years of experience in New Mexico policy and advocacy. At KW Consulting, he helps clients navigate legislative and regulatory challenges, build coalitions, and achieve policy goals.
He previously served in leadership roles at the New Mexico Association of Commerce and Industry and the New Mexico Health Care Association. In addition to his consulting work, Jason has led advocacy trainings for professional associations and community groups across the state.
Jason has led advocacy efforts on behalf of a wide range of clients, including national trade associations, Fortune 500 companies, and statewide professional societies.
Kelly Fajardo
Former NM State Representative and Founder of The Fajardo Group
Kelly is a seasoned lobbyist and former five-term state legislator, known for her intelligence, political savvy, and commitment to client success. Through The Fajardo Group, she guides organizations through the policymaking process and helps shape strategic outcomes.
Her work spans PAC management, policy development, and coalition strategy. With deep relationships across New Mexico’s political landscape, Kelly brings a trusted and effective voice to every advocacy effort.
Kelly has also led advocacy and candidate trainings across the country, helping prepare the next generation of public servants and policy advocates.
