Dear WNMU Community,
As a new academic year begins, I am honored to welcome you to the fall semester and, for the first time, welcome you as president of Western New Mexico University.
This July, I officially began serving as the university’s 16th president. Since then, I have spent a fast-paced summer meeting students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members, listening to their experiences and learning what makes this university such a special place. Now, as the fall semester begins, I am excited to begin this academic year alongside you.
To our returning students, welcome back. To those joining the university for the first time, whether you are living on campus, attending the Deming campus or beginning your education fully online, welcome to your new chapter.
The beginning of a semester is more than a change on the calendar. It is a chance to begin again, to set new goals and to discover what you can achieve. Your time at Western New Mexico University can ignite your academic and career potential, introduce you to fresh ideas and new perspectives, and challenge you to discover new possibilities.
I encourage you to make the most of every opportunity this year. Step beyond your comfort zone. Get to know the people around you. Ask questions. Contribute to classroom discussions. Take advantage of opportunities beyond the classroom. And, of course, make time to cheer on our Mustang athletes.
Just as important, remember that you do not have to navigate your college experience alone. A successful education is about more than what happens in a classroom, and there are people and resources across the university ready to help you succeed.
The University Library provides research assistance and resources that will become increasingly valuable throughout your academic journey. The Math Café and Writing Center offer support when you need an extra hand with challenging assignments. Every student has access to TimelyCare, providing free mental telehealth support. For students on campus, the One Stop provides fresh food and personal necessities at no cost.
These resources exist because your success matters.
Listening to students will also be a priority throughout the year. This fall, my office will begin hosting Coffee with the President, bringing students together for conversations at the Silver City and Deming campuses and creating opportunities to connect with students studying fully online. These conversations will be a chance for me to hear directly from you, discuss your concerns, gain deeper insights into your experiences and identify ways we can make WNMU stronger.
We are already listening. Earlier this year, students participated in the university’s annual student survey, contributing vital insights into what is working and where there is room to improve. That feedback is informing decisions and shaping improvements that will make your experience at WNMU stronger, more connected, and more rewarding.
I am honored to begin this academic year with you. Together, we will make this a year of discovery and meaningful progress as Western New Mexico University enters its 133rd year of providing opportunity with purpose.
Go Mustangs,
A New Academic Year. A Shared Opportunity.
Jose E. Coll, Ph.D.
President
Western New Mexico University