Lt. Governor Diane D. Denish named part of the team Friday that will help her transition into the role of governor.
Kathy Keith has been named as Denish’s transition director and Chris Cervini will act as its communications director.
Cervini, who worked as Denish’s chief of staff for a part of her time as lieutenant governor, comes from Lovelace Health System.
Keith, meanwhile, comes from Public Works, LLC, a well-known group in Democratic circles that Gov. Bill Richardson used on occasion to develop policy ideas. Public Works has an office in Santa Fe. Keith also has Richardson ties, having worked as the state’s director of economic development under him.
One of Public Works’ principals, Eric Schnurer, meanwhile, is a well-known consultant in Democratic circles; he has done work for the Democratic Leadership Council, which is affiliated with President Bill Clinton. He also has worked for Democratic presidential candidates, including Richardson, for his talents as a speechwriter.
Denish said in a press release her transition team will enable her to step into the governor’s role with minimum disruption.
“The transition staff will work at my direction to prepare the administration to hit the ground running on day one,” Denish said in the release. “New Mexico faces serious challenges and we will be ready to meet them head on. Kathy and Chris bring exceptional experience, skills, and professionalism to our transition efforts. It’s a pleasure to welcome them to the team.”