From Maria

After more than six years of an extraordinary journey together, I am stepping away from my role as instructor with Villages of Santa Fe, with my final class on June 30, 2026.

What began as a small group of 20 dedicated participants has grown into a vibrant, nationally recognized wellness community of thousands. Watching each of you show up — week after week, through a pandemic, through personal challenges, through every season — has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.

To our students: you are the reason this work has always mattered. Your commitment to your own health and wellbeing has inspired me every single day. As I have said at the end of every class — you are one of my greatest gifts in life. That will never change.

To our partners and supporters — including AARP, Santa Fe County, Las Campanas Community Foundation, Christus Health, and Anchorum — thank you for believing in this mission and making it possible to serve so many.

It has been an honor. I will continue doing the work I love, because helping people live longer, stronger, and more joyful lives is not just what I do — it is who I am.

With deep gratitude,

 Maria Francis