Loring was appointed after serving as interim director since August 2024.
Source: New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs
Images: Courtesy
Photo (left) Courtesy Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum via Facebook
LAS CRUCES — Steve Loring will lead the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum as its next executive director, continuing his work to expand the museum’s educational reach and deepen connections to New Mexico’s agricultural communities.
Loring was appointed after serving as interim director since August 2024. During his two years in that role, Loring guided the museum into its second decade of accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, oversaw construction of the Jardín de Tortugas Pueblo opening Sept. 19, and strengthened partnerships with Doña Ana County Master Gardeners and New Mexico State University to create forward-looking, living agricultural exhibits.
“Steve’s steady leadership and deep agricultural background make him the right person to guide this museum into its next chapter,” said Debra Garcia y Griego, cabinet secretary of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. “His commitment to hands-on education and community collaboration ensures that New Mexicans of all ages can connect with the past, present and future of farming in our state.”
“Steve has been a welcome addition to the museum,” NM Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum Board President Bob Mayberry said. “His experience managing an organization’s foundational operations provides unity and stability, while his vision for the museum’s growth and evolution supports the board’s goal of providing visitors with a thoughtful, dynamic and informative experience.”
Before accepting the interim director role, Loring served as president of the independent, non-profit Friends of the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum board. He brings nearly 26 years of agricultural leadership through the New Mexico State University Agriculture Experiment Station System, including more than 15 years as its assistant/associate director.
“It is an honor to lead this fine museum,” Steve Loring said. “I will draw upon my experience to ensure the excellent work of the museum continues and to expand its outreach and impact.”
The New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces is a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs. The 47-acre interactive museum brings to life the 4,000-year history of growing food and fiber in this region. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, it features livestock, indoor and outdoor exhibits, barns, greenhouse and demonstrations. The Museum is supported by the independent, non-profit Friends of the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum.
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