The New Mexico Broadcasters Association (NMBA) is a not-for-profit corporation chartered by the State of New Mexico in 1951. It membership includes radio and television stations, as well as other community members with a stake in broadcasting throughout New Mexico. During its 60 year history, the NMBA has helped and encouraged the development of the art of broadcasting by standardizing customs and practices which are in the best interests of the public and the broadcasting industry. The Association's key responsibilities include assisting its members with general and broadcast-specific business challenges through educational seminars, legal hotlines, grassroots lobbying (in-state and on Capitol Hill), and additional opportunities to receive industry specific assistance, locate helpful resources, and network with fellow broadcasters.

   The NMBA also aims to promote broadcasting as a viable and exciting career choice by offering annual scholarships and maintaining an online database of available jobs for individuals searching for a career in radio or television, as well as the opportunity to post a resume online.

   Committed to public service, the NMBA works closely with the many departments within the state government as well as the Governor's Office, the New Mexico Office of Emergency Management, and the New Mexico Army National Guard and US Coast Guard to help disseminate valuable information to the public.

    The NMBA is governed by a 5-member Executive Board of Directors, and is managed by a full-time President/CEO and staff of five. The NMBA staff maintains the association’s website, records of self-inspection and other FCC accounting, and disseminates vital information to broadcasters around the state through its weekly publications, as well as coordinates job fairs, media workshops and its annual convention and awards banquet.

For over half a century New Mexico broadcasters have been vital partners in their communities across the state. From the exciting play-by-play of the local high school football game, to helping first responders coordinate resources and communications in a crisis, New Mexico broadcasters dedicate time, money and energy to their communities.

Every year, radio and television stations across the state also provide millions of dollars in free airtime to promote local fundraisers, school activities, local charities and other events, and these events, in turn have have raised millions of dollars to support those communities.

The New Mexico Broadcasters Foundation continues in this tradition by giving tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships to New Mexico students attending New Mexico high schools, colleges and universities. For more information on the Foundation and those programs, please visit us online at www.nmbf.org.

Paula Maes, President and CEO

Paula Maes has been in broadcasting for the past 30 years beginning her career at KOB-FM while attending the University of New Mexico. After graduating from UNM, Maes joined KOAT-TV as a researcher for the News Department. She then became a producer for the 6PM and 10PM newscast.  In 1981 she joined KOB-TV as Public Affairs Director. During this time Maes won an "EMMY" for her work on a project dealing with child sexual abuse, "When Touching Is a Crime". Paula later became Creative Services Director for KOB-TV.

After leaving KOB-TV Paula opened an advertising and public relations agency - Maes, Beimer and Dahl. In 1996, Paula joined the NMBA an Executive Director. She is the proud mother of 4 sons: Michael, Evan, Joshua and Christopher. Paula is also a member of the Albuquerque Public Schools Board. 

Suzan Strong, Communications Director

Suzan Strong has been with the NMBA as a web developer for seven years creating vital member services such as the Member section of our website, the Broadcasters Virtual Job Fair and the New Mexico News Network. As a communications specialist for local schools and non-profit organizations, Suzan's experiencewith web-based communications strategies adds a level of expertise to our staff as well as providing new web services for members.  Suzan is married to Greg Wickstrom, a project manager at Sandia National Labs, and has two children - Zac and Madie. 

Susan Wrons, Foundation Director

As an event planner and grant coordinator, Susan Wrons complements our office staff with her organizational skills. Susan manages our convention and the "Links for Education" Golf Tournament, as well as the Legislative dinner. In addition, Susan also serves as the administrative assistant for the National Alliance of State Broadcasters Associations where she coordinates NASBA's biyearly meetings in DC. As a registered nurse, Susan also keeps our office staff exercising for a healthier lifestyle! Susan is married to energy engineer Ralph Wrons and has three children - Leah, Evan and Joey.  

MaryAnn Morton, Resources Director

MaryAnn Morton is an "old hand" at radio and TV broadcasting. After working for many years in traffic, sales and on-air talent on the broadcasting side, MaryAnn comes to the NMBA most recently from the client side, having worked with Mellekas Advertising and Galles Cheverolet for over 25 years. MaryAnn's experience with advertising makes her a perfect fit for our Broadcast Resources - the buying service that benefits the Broadcasters' Foundation (NMBF), as well as bringing advertising opportunities to our stations across the state. MaryAnn loves camping and kayaking with her friend, Dave. She also has two daughters, two sons-in-law and three grandchildren. 

2333 Wisconsin, NE (map)
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110
       (505) 881-4444
Fax (505) 881-5353
New Mexico Toll Free (800) 622-2414

or email our office staff