Director of Development for Physcira – Gary Tripp

With over four decades of experience in education, leadership, and organizational development, Gary Tripp has dedicated his career to advancing student success and strengthening educational institutions across New Mexico. As the Director of Development for Physcira Gary leads efforts to integrate physics education into every K-12 school in the state. His role involves establishing partnerships with educators, school administrators, and policymakers to ensure that students have access to high-quality physics curricula and hands-on learning tools. Through his leadership, Physcira has expanded its reach, delivering innovative physics kits and fostering a culture of scientific inquiry in classrooms across New Mexico.

Beyond his work at Physcira, Gary serves as a Regent on the Board of Regents for New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU), where he contributes to the governance and strategic planning of the institution. A proud alumnus of NMHU, he holds both a Master of Arts in Education Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education, Political Science, and Education. His deep-rooted commitment to NMHU reflects his broader dedication to higher education and student development.

Prior to his current roles, Gary built an extensive career in public education and nonprofit leadership. As Executive Director of the New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA), he played a pivotal role in overseeing statewide athletic and activity programs, ensuring fair competition, and promoting character education in schools. During his tenure, he also worked closely with the New Mexico Secretary of Education to manage budgets, audit findings, and policy updates for member schools.

His leadership extended to school administration, serving as Superintendent and Principal at the Bureau of Indian Education – Zia Pueblo, where he worked to improve student achievement while preserving and promoting the cultural values of the Pueblo community. As Chief Strategy Planning and Engagement Officer for Rio Rancho Public Schools, he spearheaded government relations, community outreach programs, and strategic initiatives that enhanced student and family engagement across the district.

In addition to his work in K-12 education, Gary has been an advocate for equitable access to resources, notably serving as a Consultant for Cooperative Educational Services (CES), where he played a crucial role in securing emergency funding for private and charter schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. His ability to navigate state and federal policies has consistently contributed to improved educational outcomes for students in New Mexico.

Throughout his career, Gary has remained deeply involved in service and governance, including his tenure on the Rio Rancho Public Schools Board of Education and the NMAA Foundation. His dedication to public education, strategic vision, and passion for student achievement continue to shape his work, ensuring that future generations have access to quality learning experiences in both the sciences and beyond.