Heinrich Announces New Chief of Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Nov. 1, 2019) – Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) announced that Rebecca L. Avitia will serve as his new chief of staff in Washington, D.C. Avitia is a native New Mexican and will be one of three Latino chiefs of staff serving in the Senate. She is transitioning from her role as Senator Heinrich's state director next week. Before joining Senator Heinrich’s state leadership team, Avitia served as the executive director of the National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque.

“Throughout her career, Rebecca has been a strong advocate and leader committed to improving the lives of those in her community. I’m proud to have her transition to our team in D.C. and am confident she will be a great asset to the work we do every day to create opportunity across New Mexico,” said Heinrich. “I want to thank my outgoing Chief of Staff Joe Britton for his service and wish him the best of luck. I know that he will continue to make a difference in the lives of everyone he meets.”

“I am extraordinarily excited for the work ahead and to continue onward with this incredible team,” said Avitia. “I look forward to serving Senator Heinrich and the people of New Mexico in my new role as we continue to do good for our state, our democracy, and our planet.”

Avitia grew up in Albuquerque’s North Valley. She is a graduate of Eldorado High School, Trinity University, and Columbia University School of Law. She was a practicing attorney in both New York and New Mexico, and has served as an adjunct professor at the University of New Mexico School of Law. Avitia has also served on the Albuquerque Development Commission, Presbyterian Healthcare Services Central New Mexico Community Board of Trustees, and as a board member for WESST, a statewide small business incubator.