DeAnza Valencia 

DeAnza Valencia is a government affairs and policy strategist with deep experience at the state, regional and federal levels. A native New Mexican, she advises clients on navigating complex regulatory environments, engaging with policymakers, and advancing strategic initiatives and legislation at the state and federal level.

DeAnza brings a unique background spanning law, lobbying, communications, and public policy. She has a proven track record of shaping legislative and regulatory outcomes, helping clients effectively engage with state legislatures, agencies, and key stakeholders. Her work is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of how policy is developed and implemented, paired with strong community relations engagement, enabling her to guide clients through complex, multi‑level government processes.

Prior to joining Beatty & Wozniak, DeAnza served as the CEO of the National Hispanic Cultural Center Foundation (NHCCF), supporting a federally recognized institution, where she led strategy, operations, and fundraising to advance Hispanic arts, culture, and humanities. She previously held multiple leadership roles at AARP, including Managing Director of the Family Caregiving team within AARP’s Government Affairs division, where she focused on national and state advocacy efforts on a range of policy issues and successfully advanced more than 180 state and federal legislative initiatives. She served as Associate State Director for Advocacy in New Mexico, where she directed statewide campaigns, worked closely with legislators and agencies, and helped pass significant bipartisan legislation impacting economic security, healthcare access, and retirement savings.

Earlier in her career, DeAnza founded and led consulting and advocacy firms focused on public policy, grassroots engagement, and strategic communications. She has also held staff roles in the U.S. Senate in Washington, D.C., and the New Mexico State Senate, providing her with firsthand experience working alongside both state and federal policymakers.

Deeply rooted in New Mexico, DeAnza is committed to supporting the continued growth and sustainability of the state’s energy economy. She works closely with clients to build relationships with policymakers, navigate regulatory and legislative processes, and position their businesses for long-term success. Her ability to connect local priorities with broader regional and national policy dynamics allows her to deliver strategic, forward-looking counsel.