Enchantment State News

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has announced the nomination of 11 individuals to serve as regents for eight higher education institutions in New Mexico. The appointments are set to impact Eastern New Mexico University, New Mexico Highlands University, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, New Mexico Military Institute, New Mexico School for the Deaf, New Mexico State University, Northern New Mexico College, and the University of New Mexico.

These nominees bring a range of experiences and insights that are expected to contribute significantly to the advancement of higher education in the state. An announcement regarding nominations for Western New Mexico University's Board of Regents is anticipated soon following recent resignations.

For Eastern New Mexico University, Lance A. Pyle has been reappointed. Pyle currently serves as Curry County manager and holds degrees from Clovis Community College and Eastern New Mexico University. His past roles include serving on Melrose city council and as mayor.

Gary Tripp is nominated for New Mexico Highlands University. He has held various educational administrative positions including director roles at Physical Science Research Associates and Rio Rancho Public Schools.

Dr. Yolanda King will continue her role at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. She brings extensive experience in physical chemistry and technical advising with Engility Corporation.

Thomas E. Jennings is nominated for the Board of Regents at the New Mexico Military Institute. His background includes public service as Roswell's mayor and involvement in community organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Brigadier General Kallie D. Kuehl also joins Jennings at NMMI with over two decades in military leadership roles including legal counsel positions at Kirtland Air Force Base.

Rosemary J. Gallegos is appointed to the board at the New Mexico School for the Deaf after serving as superintendent there until 2021.

Ricardo F. Gonzales will join the board at New Mexico State University with his background in public policy leadership currently exercised at El Paso Electric.

Ron J. Lovato is nominated for Northern New Mexico College's board with experience managing tribal government affairs as governor of Ohkay Owingeh.

Erica Rita Velarde will continue her work on Northern’s board bringing her expertise in energy engineering from her current role within General Services Department’s Facilities Management Division.

At the University of New Mexico, Christina R. Campos is appointed bringing healthcare administration experience from Guadalupe County Hospital where she has served since 2004.

Patricia G. Williams joins UNM’s board with over twenty years in civil litigation practice focusing on commercial law including tribal law representation through Wiggins, Williams & Wiggins P.C.