Meet Our Team
Kandi Branch
Outreach Projects Coordinator
Kandi was born and raised in Artesia. She knew from an early age that she wanted to teach and work with children. She graduated from Artesia High School and attended Eastern New Mexico University in Portales where she received degrees in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education with Minors in Music Education and Language Arts/English.
Elisabeth Jackson
Executive Director
Originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Elisabeth graduated from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Marketing. Since then, she has worked in the oil and gas industry and has spent the last seven years in the non-profit sector. She brings her non-profit experience and love for the Artesia community to the Executive Director role.
Dr. Crit Caton
Scholarship Coordinator
Crit impacted New Mexico public schools for over three decades as a teacher, coach, athletic director and administrator. Since his days as a student and basketball player in Hobbs NM, Crit knew the value of teamwork, goal-setting, and determination. He has earned the reputation of a true leader because of his willingness to go the extra mile, whenever, wherever, and for whomever needs his assistance.