Toby Velasquez was appointed Director of State Parks in July 2021. Director Velasquez began his State Parks career as a seasonal employee in 1991 and has held a number of positions in the Division, including park ranger, park manager, regional manager, and bureau chief. As Deputy Director, he was able to instill the values he holds dear in the next generation of State Parks employees.

A native of the beautiful Mora Valley, and proud long-time resident of the Pojoaque Valley, he is active within his community and serves on the Pojoaque Valley District School Board. Velasquez also coaches and mentors youth through non-profit organizations and promotes outdoor recreation, sportsmanship and teamwork. Velasquez is a graduate of Mora High School and alumnus of New Mexico Highlands University.