Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has announced 11 regent nominations for various higher education institutions across New Mexico. These appointments are for 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.

The governor's office emphasized that these nominees bring diverse experiences in education to their roles. An announcement regarding nominations for the Western New Mexico University Board of Regents will be forthcoming due to recent resignations.

For Eastern New Mexico University, Lance A. Pyle is reappointed. He currently serves as Curry County manager and has a background in business administration from Clovis Community College and Eastern New Mexico University.

Gary Tripp is nominated for New Mexico Highlands University. His extensive experience includes roles in education administration and human resources within public schools and educational associations.

Dr. Yolanda King is reappointed at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. She holds a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the University of New Mexico and works as a senior advisor at Engility Corporation with significant experience in defense-related roles.

Thomas E. Jennings is nominated for the Board of Regents at the New Mexico Military Institute. His career spans public service roles including mayor of Roswell and involvement in community organizations.

Brigadier General Kallie D. Kuehl also joins the board at the same institute with over 20 years of military leadership experience across sectors including legal counsel roles at Kirtland Air Force Base.

Rosemary J. Gallegos is appointed to the board at the New Mexico School for the Deaf where she previously served as superintendent until 2021.

Ricardo F. Gonzales joins as a regent for New Mexico State University with his background in public policy and communications leadership, currently serving as regional vice president at El Paso Electric.

Ron J. Lovato is appointed to Northern New Mexico College’s board with his leadership experience within tribal settings and educational programs management.

Erica Rita Velarde returns to Northern New Mexico College’s board bringing her expertise as an energy engineer focusing on facility energy efficiency improvements.

At the University of New Mexico, Christina R. Campos brings her healthcare executive experience from Guadalupe County Hospital where she serves as administrator since 2004.

Patricia G. Williams joins UNM’s board with her extensive legal practice specializing in complex commercial litigation and tribal law representation through Wiggins, Williams & Wiggins, P.C., Albuquerque.