CNM Navigators
About Us
Navigators are your go-to people at CNM. They are a source of information and support through every step of the process, from application to graduation.
The Navigators also have a team of Student Navigators who have been in your shoes and know what it’s like to be a CNM Suncat. You’ll likely get a phone call or email from the Student Navigators. Got a question only a fellow student will understand? Ask them!
Schedule a one-on-one appointment or email us at [email protected] if you have not yet applied to CNM as a student.
Meet CNM's Navigators
Read more about each Navigator below. If you're ready to reach out, send an email or schedule a time to meet using the links provided.
Amber Hickman
Amber Hickman, a proud member of the Kin Ya'áanii tribe, was born and raised in Grants, New Mexico. Straight out of high school, she embarked on her educational journey at CNM. Initially starting as a CNM Student Employee and Contact Center Specialist, Amber found joy in assisting fellow students and excelled in her studies, earning two associate degrees from CNM. Currently, Amber is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on Marketing at New Mexico State University.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Amber is deeply connected to her Native American heritage and values. One of Amber's core beliefs is encapsulated in the phrase: "It doesn’t matter what others are doing, it matters what you’re doing." This philosophy underscores her dedication to personal growth and excellence in all aspects of her life.
You can reach Amber at [email protected] or schedule a time to meet.
Anna Bavido
Anna Bavido aka 包安娜 (she/her 女的) started in Amarillo, Texas, and on her round-about-way to New Mexico, she went through Oklahoma to get a bachelor's degree from Rogers State University, through Istanbul, Turkiye to get a teaching certificate, and the picturesque island of Kinmen, Taiwan to learn Mandarin.
Now that she's here, she's excited to bring her diverse skills to the table to creatively problem solve for CNM students.
You can reach Anna at [email protected] or schedule a time to meet.
Diego Montoya
Diego Montoya was born in Albuquerque and raised in Magdalena, New Mexico, where his family has lived for generations.
Before coming to work at CNM, Diego graduated from the University of New Mexico, where he earned a bachelor's degree. As an AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) tutor for APS, Diego guided middle and high school students to achieve their goals of higher education.
Diego is a music fan and New Mexico United supporter. He is a proud New Mexican, loves to support his culture and traditions, and believes that you are never too young or too old to start learning.
You can reach Diego at [email protected] or schedule a time to meet.
Dudley Noriega Zapata
Dudley Noriega Zapata is a bilingual professional from Bogota D.C, Colombia. He is excited to share and apply his knowledge and experience as a Navigator. Dudley completed his bachelor's degree in economics and a specialization in Financial Management in his country; then, he decided to move his life and dreams from Colombia to Albuquerque in August 2021.
Initially, Dudley started as a CNM Student Employee, and years later, throughout his experience as a Student Services Technician, he developed a deep interest and delight in helping prospective students and improving their experience in college. This perception enabled him to earn degree in Business Administration from CNM. Currently, he is looking forward to starting an MBA focused on Sport Management at UNM.
Dudley loves Albuquerque and New Mexican culture and believes that education is a transformative engine that allows people to improve their quality of life.
You can reach Dudley at [email protected] or schedule a time to meet.
Juan Jimenez
Juan Jimenez was born and raised Grinnell, Iowa, where he graduated with a degree in Graphic Design.
Juan spent eight years working for an advertising agency in Miami, Florida, and also worked for the Miami Dade Public Library, rising from a page to Library Assistant III in less than a year. He also served as an administrative officer, assisting parents and children with scheduling in-person and online tutoring sessions at the libraries.
Juan joined the CNM Navigator team in November 2024 after relocating to Albuquerque to be closer to family. Juan believes that the following words by Led Zepplin serve as a reminder that no matter what, you can always improve yourself: "Yes, there are two paths you can go by, but in the long run, there's still time to change the road you're on."
You can reach Juan at [email protected] or schedule a time to meet.
Soleil Burgess
Soleil Burgess (They/Them/Theirs) is a California native who made the move to Albuquerque, New Mexico in 2020.
While completing their master's in education, Soleil was a Student Success Coach at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona for four years where they provided proactive and comprehensive guidance on academic and interpersonal factors to diverse college students. Soleil hopes to bring the same enthusiasm and excitement for student success to CNM's campuses.
Outside of their dedication to helping students achieve their goals, Soleil has a passion for musical theatre and screenwriting/producing for the Q26 - a multimedia non-profit dedicated to centering QTBIPOC (Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, People of Color) creatives. They've even had their work showcased in popular queer film festivals like LA's OutFest, NYC's NewFest, Atlanta's Out on Film Festival and Oregon's TAG! Film Festival.
You can reach Soleil at [email protected] or schedule a time to meet.