Mark Benak

Mark S. Benak is a prominent figure in the fields of technology and philanthropy, currently serving as the Chairman of the Sandia Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting education and children's wellbeing in Albuquerque, New Mexico. His extensive career spans over 30 years, during which he has held various significant roles in startup and product development, particularly in the technology and life sciences sectors.

Professional Background

• Chairman of the Sandia Foundation: In this role, Benak leads initiatives that provide scholarships and funding to enhance educational opportunities for children in New Mexico.12
• Vice-President of Imagine New Mexico: This non-profit organization focuses on improving the lives of New Mexicans by fostering collaboration among various non-profits to address issues such as education, healthcare, and poverty.2
• Former CEO of Asset Performance Technologies: Before his current roles, he was the CEO of this SaaS startup, which was later acquired by Uptake Technologies, where he joined the executive team.13

Education and Fellowships

Mark Benak completed the Advanced Leadership Initiative at Harvard University in 2022. During this program, he explored strategies to enhance New Mexico's economy by identifying its strengths and addressing its challenges.34

Community Involvement

In addition to his leadership positions, Benak is actively involved with the Albuquerque Community Foundation, contributing to various committees focused on impact investing and social giving.12 He is also a founding board member of the Albuquerque Community Foundation Future Fund and a consultant for Roadrunner Venture Studio, further emphasizing his commitment to community development and economic improvement in New Mexico.2

Personal Insights

Benak has expressed a strong desire to leverage his expertise to contribute positively to New Mexico's future. He recognizes the complexity of the issues facing the state but remains optimistic about finding collaborative solutions.3

Overall, Mark S. Benak's career reflects a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to social impact, making him a significant leader in both business and community service.