Marshall Mecham
Artesia Daily Press

Lara Conklin, 42, is the new executive director of Artesia MainStreet.

Conklin is from Artesia, but lived in Lubbock, Texas, for the last 15 years. In Lubbock, she was a designer for her business Olive Tree Interiors, which consulted with home builders on interior design.

Conklin earned a master’s degree in childhood education from Lubbock Christian University. She worked in that field in Lubbock as an assistant director of SuperKids Pre-School at South Plains Church of Christ and in Artesia with ByYourSide Teaching Services.

“I was very interested in event planning and coordinating,” said Conklin, whose first day in her new job was May 17. “I was interested in working either at the Chamber or for Artesia MainStreet through events. I found out that this position was open, so it was a great fit.”

Artesia MainStreet is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organized “to encourage, foster and stimulate the preservation and economic development of historic downtown Artesia,” according to its website.

Meghan Martinez, the organization’s events coordinator, said former executive director Morgan Fox is now a legislative aide to State Sen. Jim Townsend (R-34) and State Rep. Jon Henry (R-54), who is also mayor of Artesia. Despite her new role, Fox is “still heavily involved in MainStreet,” Martinez said.

Artesia MainStreet board president Scott Taylor said the organization wanted someone to replace Fox who would bring “energy and love” to the job.

“We were looking for someone who will bring high energy and be passionate about Artesia,” Taylor said. “I like the spirit Lara has.”

Conklin said she is grateful for the opportunity.

“There’s something deeply rewarding about helping my community, whether that’s through supporting local businesses or creating events that bring people together,” Conklin said. “For me, it’s not just about economic development. It’s about creating a downtown that reflects the identity, history and the culture of the people who live there.”

She said her new position will allow Conklin to work closely with local businesses and other facets of the Artesia community.

“I love collaborating with the amazing people here in Artesia, from business owners to city leaders, to volunteers, and I’m energized by turning big ideas into visible, lasting impact,” she said.

Reporting intern Marshall Mecham can be reached at @nmstatembbnews on X.