Executive Leadership

Robert Chavez steps into the role of CEO after serving for years as the Chief Operations Officer (COO). Mr. Chavez’s history with YDI began when he was a 14-year-old summer youth employee. Today, he oversees all of YDI and works closely with each VP, engaging with each department and listening to every employee to ensure the success of YDI and keep our promise of partnering with every family.

He is the former COO of the New Mexico State Board of Nursing, former interim co-division director for the New Mexico Human Services Department’s Behavioral Health Services Division, and former Deputy Director for the Income Support Division. Chavez holds an MA and a BS degree from the University of Phoenix.

Donna Martinez is the Vice President of Human Resources for the agency and has been with YDI for 42 years. Ms. Martinez and her professional staff are responsible for all personnel matters for the more than five hundred professional employees of YDI. Ms. Martinez has been employed with YDI for thirty-three years and is a leading expert in the field of Human Resources. Ms. Martinez graduated from the University of Phoenix with a bachelor’s degree in 2000.

Diana has over 36 years of direct service and senior management experience in non-profit organizations ranging in scope from start-up to $20m per year, supervising programs and providing comprehensive social services and mental health care for children, youth, and families. Diana holds a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from the University of New Mexico. She is licensed as an LPCC by the State of New Mexico Counseling and Therapy Practice Board.

Mr. Jack Siamu began his tenure with YDI as Program Coordinator in 1993. In that role, he supervised seven (7) low-income housing developments and assisted a staff of ten in providing services to the residents of these programs. In 2001, he assumed directorship of the YDI Health and Training programs. He was then promoted to Deputy Director in 2006 and began working with the division’s Vice President on program oversight, legislative issues, and grant writing. In 2016, he became Senior Associate Director. YDI’s CEO has promoted Mr. Siamu to Vice President of the Prevention, Intervention, and Behavioral Health Division, to assist the existing Vice President as the division has grown exponentially over the past five years. Mr. Siamu holds a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice and is also a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Mr. Siamu excels in his work on budgetary matters and in his relationships with funders. As Co-Vice President of PIBH, he oversees 23 programs and 126 staff members. We congratulate Mr. Siamu on his promotion and look forward to continued excellence from him.

Manuel Casias is the VP of Development and Annual Giving at Youth Development Inc. He has over 30 years of experience in operations, strategic planning, fiscal management, and fund/business development. Casias has a bachelor’s degree from the College of Santa Fe, a master’s degree in organizational management from the University of Phoenix, and a master’s degree in divinity from Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, Texas.

Antoinette Baldonado joined the YDI team in September 2022, shortly after retiring from local government. Antoinette is YDI’s Senior Executive Partner, supporting YDI’s executive team.

Antoinette is dedicated to empowering young people and building stronger communities. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Business and Accounting from ENMU. Antoinette is passionate about her work at YDI, where she provides hope to many. She also brings strategic leadership and expertise to YDI’s mission.

As a community member, she continues to encourage hard work, education, and discipline.