More than 250 professionals from 29 New Mexico colleges and universities gathered at Central New Mexico Community College for the Second Annual Higher Education Technical Summit on April 28 and 29. The event aimed to enhance professional development, support, and the exchange of best practices in administrative and financial operations within the state's higher education system.
Participants attended sessions on critical topics such as capital outlay, financial aid, finance, academic policy, planning and research, and adult education. Charles Ansell from Complete College America remarked on the event's significance: “This outstanding event showcased HED’s commitment to excellence,” he said. “As we celebrate NMHED's 20th anniversary, it's evident that continued investment in colleges and universities remains crucial for advancing the State's mission of promoting efficiency, accountability, and student success across New Mexico's educational landscape."
Specialized trainings were provided by national and state partners like Excelencia in Education, Escala Education Services, Inc., Complete College America, and the New Mexico Legislative Finance Committee. These collaborations enriched the learning experience for attendees.
Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez expressed enthusiasm about the summit: “The New Mexico Higher Education Department was excited to offer trainings, a place to connect, and support for academic progress and institutional support,” she said. “The Higher Education Technical Summit offered a unique set of trainings and informational sessions for the state's public colleges and universities, empowering leaders in higher and adult education.”
Presentations addressed key bills passed during the recent legislative session in New Mexico while providing updates on FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Attendees also learned from college programs such as the New Mexico Basic Needs Consortium.
Dr. Jennifer Gomez-Chavez from Excelencia in Education commented on their participation: “Thank you to the New Mexico Higher Education Department for inviting Excelencia in Education to participate in this year’s summit,” she said. “We are honored to highlight our network of common cause and share resources available to institutions working to transform higher education to more intentionally serve Latino, and all students.”
A reception held with Complete College America celebrated connections among participants while marking a milestone—the 20th anniversary of the New Mexico Higher Education Department as a cabinet-level agency—and featured a preview of Northern New Mexico College through Complete College America's Photo Library.
Partners included Complete College America along with other local and national organizations; details are available at hed.nm.gov.
