In Memory of Crystal Peña: A Champion for Children, Families, and Community

It is with deep respect and sadness that we honor the life of Crystal Peña, who passed away on July 4, 2025. Crystal’s contributions to the Head Start community and her unwavering dedication to children and families have left a profound influence that will never be forgotten.

Crystal devoted more than two decades to the field of early childhood education, serving in various capacities with grace, insight, and passion. Her time with the New Mexico Head Start Association (NMHSA) spanned 15 years, during which she served as the president of the NMHSA and for the past year served as the Region VI Head Start Association president. In these leadership roles, Crystal ensured that Head Start remained a lifeline for thousands of families across the region.

Her influence was clear. In an area with only 2,428 centers, her leadership helped drive a multitude of impacts. According to the 2025 Head Start Profile, 82,620 children in Region VI were up to date on health screenings, diagnostic, and treatment services. This reflects Crystal’s commitment to giving every child a strong start by making their health a central part of programming. Her guidance also made it possible for 89,007 Head Start families in the region to receive services intended to strengthen family outcomes, and more than 130,300 Head Start parents were able to gain employment, continue their education, or participate in job training programs.

Yet Crystal’s legacy extends far beyond the boundaries of Head Start. She tirelessly committed to the needs of children in her community. As president of the Luna County Early Childhood Coalition for eight years, she pushed to bring more resources to families. She also led as president of the Deming Cesar Chavez Charter High School’s Governing Council Board for six years, championing secondary education for students.

In her role as associate vice president and then as vice president of HELP New Mexico, Inc., she advanced initiatives that connected families to housing, food assistance, and work training. Even in her personal time, she volunteered with the Court Appointed Special Advocates of Deming, New Mexico, offering support to children in foster care.

Crystal Peña’s legacy is one of compassion, service, and enduring commitment to the well-being of others. Her life’s work reminds us of the power of advocacy and the difference one person can make in the lives of so many.

As we reflect on Crystal’s contributions, we honor not just her professional achievements but the deep love and commitment she brought to her work. In the days ahead, the National Head Start Association remains committed to honoring and celebrating the legacy she left behind. We send our heartfelt love and support to Crystal’s family and invite our community to do the same.