New Mexico Sun

News from May 2024


First NMSU Art Student Secures Spot at Prestigious Yale Summer Residency Program

Studio art major Citlali Delgado has made history as the first New Mexico State University student to be accepted into the highly competitive Yale Norfolk School of Art’s Summer Residency Program. Delgado's accomplishment has been hailed by art professor Craig Cully, who highlighted the significance of this achievement and the recognition of her hard work and talent.Born and raised in El Paso, Delgado draws inspiration from the social and political issues prevalent in the border region. Reflecting on her experience at NMSU, Delgado expressed gratitude for the platform it...


UNM Researcher Publishes Book on Wild Carnivores of New Mexico

A new book titled "Wild Carnivores of New Mexico" has been published, shedding light on the diverse species of wild carnivores in the state. The book, a collaboration between Jean-Luc E. Cartron, a research professor at the University of New Mexico, and Jennifer K. Frey, a professor at New Mexico State University, delves into the habitats, behaviors, and conservation of various carnivores in New Mexico.Cartron, the lead author of the book, shared his inspiration behind the project, stating, "The night I saw four mountain lions right in front of me was a magical moment...


Notice of Possible Quorum at Citizen Police Academy Training

The Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board has issued a notice regarding a possible quorum at the upcoming Citizen Police Academy training session. The training is scheduled to take place on May 4, 2024, at the Albuquerque Police Academy located at 5412 2nd Street NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87107.According to the advisory board, "A quorum of the Civilian Police Oversight Advisory Board may be in attendance at the Albuquerque Police Academy regarding the Citizen Police Academy." However, they have clarified that "No board business will be discussed at the Citizen Police...


Retired NMSU VP Appointed Interim Chancellor of Community Colleges

New Mexico State University has named retired Senior Vice President for Administration and Finance Andrew J. Burke as the interim chancellor of the NMSU system’s community colleges in Doña Ana County, Alamogordo, and Grants. The announcement was made by Interim NMSU President Mónica F. Torres in a memo to the campus on Thursday, May 2.In her message, Torres highlighted Burke's deep roots in the Las Cruces community and his extensive academic background, stating, “Dr. Burke is not new to Las Cruces or the NMSU system. He was raised in Las Cruces and graduated from Las...


Nusenda Credit Union Hosts 88th Annual Meeting in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Nusenda Credit Union conducted its 88th annual meeting on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, in Albuquerque, N.M. The meeting highlighted the Credit Union’s commitment to its members and the community, showcasing its successes, growth, and support in 2023.According to the press release, members received more than $62 million in direct savings through Nusenda Credit Union, and over $8.6 million in cash was returned to members through various bonus dividends and rewards programs. Additionally, the Credit Union, along with the Nusenda Foundation and its employees, donated $1.9 million...


NMSU Dance program sees revival, hosts showcase Friday

New Mexico State University’s Dance program is experiencing a revival, with a newfound momentum under the leadership of Director Ryan McMullen. The community is invited to witness the program's resurgence at Friday's The Collection Showcase, featuring the Contemporary Dance and DanceSport ensembles. McMullen expressed his excitement about the upcoming showcase, stating, “This process started about a year ago, and I wanted the students to have some type of culminating performance. The show will be very eclectic.”McMullen, who took on the role of director in August 2023,...


Arrowhead Center at NMSU Deputy Director Named Among NM’s Women of Influence

Dana Catron, deputy director of Arrowhead Center at New Mexico State University, has been recognized as one of the 2024 Women of Influence by Albuquerque Business First. Catron expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “I am incredibly humbled and honored to have received this recognition. My professional journey to this point has been one of continuous learning and adaptation, driven by a deep commitment to fostering innovation and economic development in New Mexico.”Catron credited her team at Arrowhead Center for their collective effort, saying, “It is...


Inspiring Grad: Heather Cabos, Doctor of Pharmacy

Heather Cabos, a soon-to-be Doctor of Pharmacy graduate from The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, is set to embark on a new chapter in her career with a deep-rooted passion for patient care. Cabos, who will soon officially be known as "doctor" and "pharmacist," emphasized the importance of pharmacists in advocating for patients who may have been overlooked, stating, “Pharmacy is extremely important in my eyes. I’ve seen numerous times throughout my rotations where patients have been forgotten or slipped through the cracks. Pharmacists have been the ones to find...


Nygren inspires during visit to UNM-Gallup

Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren recently visited The University of New Mexico-Gallup, leaving a trail of inspiration and encouragement for students and faculty alike. Nygren's journey to success and his dedication to education resonated with those present during his visit.UNM-Gallup Chancellor Sabrina Ezzell expressed her gratitude for Nygren's presence, noting, “He was inspiring, and it was great to see his commitment to education." Nygren, accompanied by Ezzell, Dean of Instruction John Zimmerman, and Student Affairs Director Jayme McMahon, explored the campus,...


New facilities allow NMSU Extension to offer more resources

The Cooperative Extension Service at New Mexico State University is expanding its reach and resources with the opening of new county facilities. In a recent development, the Curry County Extension Office was inaugurated at the Curry County Fairgrounds in Clovis, New Mexico, in September 2023.Speaking about the new facility, Jon Boren, College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences associate dean and director of the Cooperative Extension Service, expressed gratitude for the partnerships that made the project possible. He highlighted the importance of modern...


NMSU professor’s research links monkeys, mosquitoes and natural virus killers

In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, questions like “How long after being infected will I be symptomatic?” and “How quickly will I clear the virus?” were important to answer for scientists working round the clock to model the virus and help save lives. A new journal article by Kathryn Hanley, a New Mexico State University biology professor with more than 20 years’ experience tracking viruses that spillover from animals into human populations, is providing answers to some of these questions regarding dengue and Zika virus.Hanley’s most recent research on the...


Contest Fosters Connections Between Generations

Today, the Department of Senior Affairs (DSA) and First Lady Elizabeth Kistin Keller came together to recognize the winners of the 42nd Annual “A Senior I Know” Essay Contest.Every year, DSA sponsors the essay contest for students in grades 1-5, encouraging them to talk to and write an essay about a significant older adult who has made a positive impact on their life."Creating opportunities for youth and older adults to engage and learn from each other helps foster a strong, vibrant community where people of all ages can thrive," said First Lady Elizabeth Kistin Keller....


Lift Up Las Cruces Block Party Set to Bring Community Together on May 18, 2024

Valley View Park residents and nearby neighbors are in for a treat as the Lift Up Las Cruces block party is set to take place on Saturday, May 18, 2024.Residents are urged to mark their calendars and prepare to come together for a day of fun, food, and community spirit. The event, scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon, promises to be a free family-friendly affair that aims to bring the neighborhood closer.The block party will provide a platform for individuals to engage with City departments and local organizations. Attendees will have the opportunity to share their ideas for...


Fentanyl Awareness Day highlights overdose prevention

On May 7, 2024, Fentanyl Awareness Day will be observed to shed light on overdose prevention efforts in New Mexico. The New Mexico Department of Health (NMHealth) is urging residents to familiarize themselves with the signs of fentanyl overdose and appropriate responses.NMHealth Secretary, Patrick Allen, emphasized the importance of preventing overdose deaths, stating, "Every individual has the power to stop an overdose death and help begin the cycle that leads toward that recovery."Dr. Miranda Durham, NMHealth’s Chief Medical Officer, highlighted the urgency of the...


2024 Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month Events Around Albuquerque

2024 Asian American Pacific Islander and Native Hawaiian Heritage Month Celebrations Around the CityMay 1 2024The month of May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. This month is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions generations of AAPI’s have made to American history, society and culture. The City of Albuquerque is home to many AAPI communities who will be sharing their diverse cultures throughout the month.Chinese immigrants first arrived in New Mexico when it was part of Mexico and continued during the U.S. Territorial Period and as...


APD Releases Episode 8 of Duke City Case Files, Urges Community Assistance in Solving Homicide

The Albuquerque Police Department has recently unveiled the 8th episode of the Duke City Case Files, a series aimed at soliciting tips in unresolved homicides. In this latest installment, the focus is on the tragic 2018 murder of Antonio Gomez, 24, who was fatally shot near San Pedro Drive S.E. and Gibson Boulevard S.E. on October 6, 2018.Antonio's father, Santiago Gomez, reminisced about his son, describing him as a talented individual with a passion for music, sports, and art. Santiago Gomez emphasized the importance of community support in bringing closure to their...


Enjoy a Day of Entertainment and Discovery During Mother’s Day at the Zoo

Embark on a journey of discovery this Mother’s Day at the ABQ BioPark Zoo on Sunday, May 12. A variety of live local music acts will be performing at seven areas throughout the Zoo, starting at 9 a.m. at the Flamingo Gazebo. According to an announcement, "Tickets are on sale now at https://artsandculture.cabq.gov/mom24."The event promises not only entertainment but also educational opportunities. "Visitors can venture through the Zoo and encounter a world of wonder at various Discovery Stations," where "BioPark volunteers will be stationed throughout the Zoo ready to...