Above and beyond: UNM-Taos massage therapy director honored with state award - UNM Newsroom

[mnews]

UNM-Taos Massage Therapy Program Director Susan Myers has been awarded the 2025 Meritorious Award by the American Massage Therapy Association–New Mexico Chapter, a recognition given to one standout member in the state each year for exceptional volunteer service and leadership.

Myers, who has spent nearly 30 years in the field, is the first recipient of the award from Northern New Mexico and only the fourth in the state’s history to receive the honor. The award, established in 1969, is considered the highest form of recognition given by AMTA chapters to members who have gone above and beyond to elevate the massage therapy profession.

Upon hearing the news, Myers said her first reaction was simply, “Wow.”

Her journey into the field began in her 30s after an arm and shoulder injury on the job led her to discover massage therapy as a form of healing. What began as personal recovery quickly revealed a natural aptitude for hands-on manipulation, setting her on a lifelong path of therapeutic service and education.

“I’m an introvert with a speech challenge,” Myers said. “When I was running my own office, I was able to focus, do my work and provide results for people who were struggling with musculoskeletal pain patterns. Now, I assist students on their journey to qualifying and applying for licensure in the field of massage therapy.”

Myers’ dedication extends well beyond the classroom. She has served in several leadership roles within the AMTA-NM Chapter, including terms as secretary and president, and now chairs the Communications Committee. Her leadership from 2020 to 2024 helped streamline operations and boost the chapter’s outreach.

Robin Faux, current president of AMTA-NM, nominated Myers for the award, citing her enduring commitment to the profession and to public service.

“[Susan] was instrumental in streamlining administrative best practices for our board, keeping us organized and efficient,” Faux wrote in a letter to AMTA Chapter Relations. “She demonstrated leadership with grace and compassion as our chapter president… and is generous with her time as an advisor to our chapter board.”

In addition to her work with AMTA-NM, Myers serves as chairperson of the state’s Massage Therapy Board under the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department. She is currently serving a five-year term, from 2023 to 2028.

Myers said her time with AMTA-NM has given her the experience and insight needed to strengthen the massage therapy program at UNM-Taos, where she continues to mentor students entering the field.

The AMTA will recognize Myers at its national convention this summer in Dallas.