FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: Jenny Green
Public Affairs Specialist
jgreen@nmda.nmsu.edu | 575-202-4249

Sept. 2, 2025

NMDA announces new class of chef ambassadors

Chefs Windels and Griego to showcase New Mexico agriculture

LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) has selected Chef Becky Windels of FARMesilla in Las Cruces and Chef Julian Griego of Albuquerque’s Street Food Institute for its third class of NEW MEXICO–Taste the Tradition® Chef Ambassadors, where they will represent New Mexico agriculture and cuisine across the state.

The New Mexico Department of Agriculture has named Chef Becky Windels of FARMesilla in Las Cruces and Chef Julian Griego of Albuquerque’s Street Food Institute to its third class of NEW MEXICO–Taste the Tradition® Chef Ambassadors, where they will represent New Mexico agriculture and cuisine across the state. (Courtesy of New Mexico Department of Agriculture)

Launched in 2018, NMDA’s Chef Ambassador Program showcases New Mexico agriculture by highlighting chefs who champion local ingredients. Ambassadors advocate for farmers, ranchers and food artisans through events, trade shows, cooking demonstrations and community outreach that emphasize the role of agriculture in everyday life.

“Chefs Becky and Julian exemplify the values of our Chef Ambassador Program by showcasing the best of New Mexico agriculture in their kitchens and communities,” said New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte. “They are masters of their craft and champions of our farmers and ranchers who make it possible to put local food on the table.”

Portrait of two New Mexico Chef Ambassadors, a man in a white chef coat and a woman wearing glasses and a dark T-shirt. — The New Mexico Department of Agriculture has named Chef Becky Windels of FARMesilla in Las Cruces and Chef Julian Griego of Albuquerque’s Street Food Institute to its third class of NEW MEXICO–Taste the Tradition® Chef Ambassadors, where they will represent New Mexico agriculture and cuisine across the state. (Photos courtesy of New Mexico Department of Agriculture)

About the Chefs

Chef Becky Windels has dedicated decades to building her culinary career and is passionate about showcasing the state’s diverse agricultural bounty, inspiring others to cook with fresh, New Mexico-grown products, and celebrating the producers behind them.
Chef Julian Griego, a Le Cordon Bleu graduate, brings more than 20 years of industry experience. Blending fine dining expertise with a passion for education, he trains future food entrepreneurs while incorporating locally sourced ingredients, creating a lasting impact on both students and New Mexico producers.

Chefs Windels and Griego join a legacy of ambassadors who have elevated New Mexico’s reputation for flavorful, locally sourced cuisine. Together, they will continue the program’s mission of celebrating and promoting the importance of agriculture in the Land of Enchantment.

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NMDA announces new class of chef ambassadors