Empowering Physicians for Effective Policy Engagement
The GAMA Advocacy Academy is an interactive, skills-based training program designed to equip physicians with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to be effective advocates at the state and local level. Whether you're new to the policymaking process or looking to elevate your impact, this academy will deepen your understanding of legislative advocacy and sharpen your communication skills with elected officials, agencies, and the broader community.
Academy Overview
The Academy is structured around two in-depth modules that combine policy education with hands-on strategy development:
Understanding the Legislative Process
Get behind the curtain of the Roundhouse. This dynamic session gives you a clear, engaging look at how New Mexico’s Legislature really works—from the structure of the Senate and House to the influential committees where real decisions get made.
You’ll learn how to track bills, follow committee assignments, and understand lawmaker dynamics using tools anyone can access—if they know how. We’ll break down how to read legislation and fiscal impact reports so they make sense and can support your advocacy.
Best of all, this module isn’t just presentation—it’s participation. You’ll work alongside fellow attendees in interactive exercises designed to build your confidence and sharpen your policy instincts in real time.
Communicating with Policymakers
Once you know how the system works, it’s time to learn how to move it. This module is all about crafting your message, building relationships, and delivering it with clarity and purpose; whether in a hearing room, a hallway, or a Zoom screen.
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’ll 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.
Meet the Instructors
Jason Espinoza
Executive Director of the GAMA and Co-Owner of KW Consulting, LLC
Jason is a veteran government affairs professional with over a decade 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.
He holds a master’s degree from The George Washington University’s School of Political Management and dual bachelor’s degrees from Arizona State University.
Kelly Fajardo
Former NM State Representative and Founder of The Fajardo Group, LLC
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.
She has also led advocacy and candidate trainings across New Mexico, helping prepare the next generation of public servants and policy advocates.
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.
In Their Words
The 2024 Advocacy Academy earned rave reviews, with 100% of surveyed participants rating the experience as “Excellent” and saying they were “Extremely likely” to recommend it to a colleague.
Attendees highlighted the interactive format and practical skill-building as standout strengths:
“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.”
In addition to strong reviews for the instructors and structure, participants asked for even more time to network and dive deeper into reading bills and presenting data—and we’re listening. Future sessions will expand opportunities for peer collaboration and topic exploration.
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.
