A vital part of the New Mexico Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission’s purpose and vision is to bring Dr. King’s message of nonviolent social action to all citizens of New Mexico. To accomplish this, the Commission must work with state government, nonprofit organizations, civic and community organizations to provide the necessary program and financial support, within the limits and guidelines of the New Mexico State Statutes.
Executive Director,
Dannelle M. Kirven, MBA
dannelle.kirven@mlkjrc.nm.gov | (505) 222-6467
Program Manager,
Reverend William Cornick Jr., MDiv., MPsy
william.cornick@mlkjrc.nm.gov | (505) 222-6464
Dannelle M. Kirven is a visionary and results-driven leader known for her strategic approach to public service, community empowerment, and equity-driven leadership across the state of New Mexico. A proud first-generation college graduate, Dannelle’s journey from Clovis, New Mexico to statewide leadership is a testament to her resilience, purpose, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of education and community. Her early involvement in the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) during middle and high school ignited a passion for service and leadership that continues to guide her work today.
Dannelle’s professional foundation was shaped through nearly a decade of service with African American Student Services (AASS) at the University of New Mexico. Rising from student leader to senior professional, she led initiatives that promoted academic achievement, cultural affirmation, and leadership development for Black students. Her work in AASS was instrumental in fostering inclusive environments, building lasting partnerships, and mentoring a new generation of changemakers throughout the UNM campus and beyond.
In 2021, Dannelle was nationally recognized as New Professional of the Year by the National Association for Black Culture Centers, an honor that reflects her deep commitment to uplifting historically marginalized communities through culturally responsive programming and advocacy.
Today, Dannelle serves as the Executive Director of the New Mexico Martin Luther King Jr. State Commission, where she leads with integrity, innovation, and a bold vision for civic engagement and justice. Under her leadership, the Commission will champion statewide programming that brings Dr. King’s legacy to life through education, service, and action to every county in New Mexico.
Dannelle holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of New Mexico. She continues to lead initiatives that center equity, celebrate cultural diversity, and ensure that underserved communities are not just represented but empowered.
She credits her parents, Gary and Hollie, for nurturing her innate leadership and instilling a lifelong love of service. Dannelle proudly describes herself as a “community-conscious and action-oriented” leader: “I believe in the power of community in New Mexico. I know that when our people have the right tools and knowledge the extraordinary happens.”
Rev. William Cornick Jr. is a respected faith leader, community advocate, and public servant committed to advancing social justice, education, and civic engagement throughout New Mexico. He currently serves as the Program Manager for the New Mexico Martin Luther King Jr. Commission, where he oversees statewide initiatives that promote volunteerism, leadership development, and the enduring values of Dr. King’s legacy.
With more than a decade of distinguished federal service, Rev. Cornick has contributed his expertise to both the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Homeland Security, supporting national missions of integrity, service, and public trust.
In addition to his public service, Rev. Cornick is the Pastor of Grant Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Albuquerque, where he leads biblically grounded worship and community outreach initiatives that strengthen families and neighborhoods. Under his leadership, Grant Chapel has expanded its community impact through programs such as the Annual MLK Breakfast, which provides scholarships to local students, and the Angel Bags Initiative, supplying food and essentials to children at Hodgin Elementary School.
A native of Norfolk, Virginia, Rev. Cornick previously pastored Murph Community A.M.E. Church in Phoenix, Arizona, where he founded the Murph Community Resource Group (501c3) to promote education and neighborhood outreach. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, a Master of Divinity, and a Master of Science in Psychology.
Rev. Cornick’s life and ministry reflect a steadfast dedication to empowering others through faith, leadership, and service.
