New Mexico Sun


UNM professor co-authors and publishes book about migrants

The University of New Mexico (UNM) has unveiled a new publication titled "Migrant World Making," co-authored by Michael Lechuga, a professor in the UNM Communication & Journalism department. The book delves into the intricate narratives and theories surrounding the settlement experiences of migrants in the U.S., exploring the complexities of community building and the associated challenges of fostering a deep sense of belonging.


First-time availability of new child income tax credit for taxpayers

The New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department has declared that families this year have the chance to benefit from a new child tax credit, which could amount to $600 per eligible child. The value of the credit will decrease as income rises. The department has begun accepting 2023 New Mexico personal income tax returns.


PNM named APS education foundation's outstanding corporate partner for 2024

Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) has announced that PNM, a leading energy company, has been recognized as its outstanding corporate partner for 2024 due to its significant contributions to the district. The company's partnership with educational organizations, including the APS Education Foundation, and its investment in education are seen as instrumental in fostering future development.


Tiffany Jiron appointed executive director at Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women

Albuquerque, N.M. – The Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) has announced Tiffany Jiron as its new Executive Director.


Museum of International Folk Art to open 'Staff Picks: Favorites from the Collection' exhibition

The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs has announced a new exhibition at the Museum of International Folk Art (MOIFA) titled "Staff Picks: Favorites from the Collection." The exhibition will showcase a diverse range of works, handpicked by the museum's staff from its permanent collection, reflecting an extensive spectrum of aesthetics.


NMSU chemical engineering professor embarks on second fulbright faculty fellowship to Brazil

New Mexico State University (NMSU) has announced that Jessica Perea Houston, a professor in chemical and materials engineering, is set to embark on her second Fulbright Faculty Fellowship. This prestigious fellowship will take place in São Paulo, Brazil, where she will participate in collaborative biomedical research projects.


Albuquerque Museum awarded grant

The city of Albuquerque has revealed that the Albuquerque Museum Foundation, on behalf of the Albuquerque Museum, has secured a $30,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). The grant is designated to support the museum in hosting its upcoming exhibition, Broken Boxes: A Decade of Art, Action, and Dialog, and in commemorating the tenth anniversary of the Broken Box podcast.


Bernalillo County appoints two members to Middle Rio Grande Housing Collaborative

Bernalillo County has announced that the Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners has approved the appointment of two individuals to serve as Housing Collaborative Commissioners for the newly established Middle Rio Grande Housing Collaborative (MRGHC). This initiative, formed in partnership with the city of Albuquerque, is designed to address the community's housing shortage.


Bernalillo County greenlights amendments to waterway safety ordinance

Bernalillo County has announced that its commissioners have approved amendments to an ordinance aimed at enhancing public safety around waterways and aiding municipal agencies in maintaining crucial waterway facilities. The amendments were passed unanimously with a 5 to 0 vote.


Bernalillo County greenlights renaming community center in honor of South Valley lawmaker

Bernalillo County has announced that its commission has approved the renaming of the Mountain View Community Center to the Henry "Kiki" Saavedra Community Center. The move honors Saavedra, who represented a South Valley district for 38 years in the New Mexico State Legislature and chaired the house appropriations and finance committee.


Isleta Boulevard pavement preservation project begins in Bernalillo County

Bernalillo County has announced the commencement of the Isleta Boulevard pavement preservation project, a collaboration with Sen. Michael Padilla and Rep. Andres Romero. The project will focus on improvements to the corridor that extends from Durand Road SW to Bridge Boulevard SW.


UNM hospital boosts support for frontline health care workers with new funds

The University of New Mexico (UNM) Health Sciences has announced that the UNM Hospital is set to introduce additional funding to increase employee pay. The hospital administration has finalized new contracts with all labor unions at the UNM Hospital’s Lomas campus and initiated discussions with the two labor unions at the UNM Sandoval Regional Medical Center (SRMC), a campus of UNM Hospital.


Legislators to support cancer patients at UNM cancer center through Hoops 4 Hope fundraiser

UNM Health Sciences has announced that state legislators will participate in the annual Hoops 4 Hope basketball game, with proceeds going towards supporting cancer patients. The funds raised from this event are allocated to assist individuals receiving care at the University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center.


UNM doctor testifies on long covid at U.S. senate committee hearing

UNM Health Sciences has announced that Dr. Michelle Harkins, a professor of medicine, provided testimony at a U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee hearing on addressing long COVID-19. Harkins aimed to elucidate the complex issues associated with long COVID-19 and explore ways to enhance both research efforts and patient care.


UNM cancer center names its new associate director for training and education

UNM Health Sciences has recently announced the appointment of Jennifer Gillette, PhD, as the associate director for training and education at the University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center (UNMCCC). Gillette, currently a professor and senior director for research in the UNM department of pathology, is expected to play a significant role in advancing cancer education and training initiatives at the center.


MFA launches Home Improvement Program in eight counties

The New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA) has announced the launch of the Home Improvement Program, a scheme designed to provide direct home rehabilitation services in eight counties. The initiative is intended to fill gaps in service provision left by the HOME Rehabilitation Program and will be operational in Guadalupe, Harding, Los Alamos, McKinley, Rio Arriba, Quay, San Juan, and Union Counties.


MFA allocates $5.5m for FirstDown Plus program

The New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA) has unveiled the FirstDown Plus loan program, with an allocation of $5.5 million from the New Mexico Housing Trust Fund. The initiative is designed to offer financial support to homebuyers in need.


OPINION: Fed’s investigate APD officers and a defense attorney in reported kickback scheme

Once again, New Mexicans wake up to learn the Federal Government has raided the homes of New Mexicans. The last time was in July 2021, when Democrat House Speaker Sheryl William Stapleton's home was raided. This time, it was Albuquerque Police officers and a defense attorney while the Bernalillo County District Attorney dismissed 144 driving under the influence. We will soon learn what the Federal Attorney General’s office is investigating and why Bernalillo DA dismissed 144 DUI cases.


NMSU planet formation research group secures second NASA emerging worlds grant

New Mexico State University (NMSU) has announced that the NASA Emerging Worlds program has awarded Debanjan Sengupta, a postdoctoral researcher, a significant $750,000 grant for a three-year project. The project is aimed at exploring the formation and early evolution of the solar system.


Judge in favor of the Albuquerque Bernalillo Joint Air Quality Board and Bernalillo County

Bernalillo County has announced that District Court Judge Francis Matthew issued a ruling granting a preliminary injunction on the Albuquerque Bernalillo Joint Air Quality Board, allowing the board to continue its operations.