The New Mexico Higher Education Department is set to host Higher Education Day at the State Capitol in Santa Fe on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., welcoming students, families, and the public.

Over 24 colleges, universities, and education partners from across New Mexico will participate. They will provide information on degree programs, certificates, scholarships, and more.

Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez stated: “During Higher Education Day at the Roundhouse, we will celebrate the extraordinary achievements and growth within New Mexico’s educational landscape at our colleges and universities. This past year, over 40,000 New Mexicans benefitted from the Opportunity and Lottery scholarships.” She also mentioned that GEAR UP New Mexico high school students would be attending to learn about local college opportunities.

New Mexico State University’s Mariachi Orgullo and Ballet Folklorico will perform twice during the event with their ensemble titled ‘Pride of New Mexico’.

Dignitaries from both the Executive and Legislative branches have been invited to speak in support of investments in higher education. The day’s agenda includes a panel discussion on two decades of departmental work, recognition of scholarship programs, presentations on college readiness initiatives such as New Mexico’s College Basic Needs Project, and acknowledgment of Phi Theta Kappa community college honors students.

For further details about the department's offerings or scholarships like Opportunity and Lottery scholarships visit hed.nm.gov or reachhighernm.com.

The department was established in 2005 to oversee public and tribal colleges as well as special schools in New Mexico. It manages financial aid programs funded by the state along with adult education services through its GEAR UP program.