Nicole Luna, originally from Pueblo of Laguna, New Mexico, has built a notable career in athletics and academics at Western New Mexico University (WNMU). After graduating from Laguna-Acoma High School in 2009, Luna attended WNMU where she pursued both athletic and academic achievements.
Luna earned two bachelor's degrees from WNMU in Spring 2014: a Bachelor of Science in Public and Non-Profit Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management, with a minor in Marketing. She later returned to the university to complete her Master of Business Administration.
During her time as a student-athlete, Luna was recognized for her contributions to the WNMU Women's Cross Country Team. In her senior year, she led the team to two open race titles early in the season. Luna placed third at the George Kyte Classic (5k) with a time of 18:46.4 and fourth at the Dave Murray Invitational (5k) with an improved time of 18:32.96. She continued her strong performances at the NMHU Jamboree (5k), finishing with a time of 18:34.19. Luna broke the school record for the 6K event twice during that season, first setting it and then surpassing it at the UC San Diego Triton Classic with a time of 22:45.1.
Her efforts earned her recognition as WNMU Senior Student Athlete of the Year. She finished 26th at the RMAC Championship and was inducted into the WNMU Hall of Fame in 2018.
After completing her collegiate running career, Luna transitioned into coaching as a Graduate Assistant Coach for both men's and women's cross country teams at WNMU. "Now known as Coach Luna, she brings a deep understanding of the sport and genuine care for her athletes – mentoring them not just to run faster, but also to live with the same purpose and determination she embodies."
Following her education at WNMU, Luna worked with Silver City Arts and Cultural District to promote tourism before moving into insurance roles in Prescott, Arizona. She later accepted an accounting position through a former teammate before relocating to Corona, California in 2019 where she works as a corporate accountant for a construction company.
Outside work, Luna enjoys running half marathons, spending time with family, being outdoors, and watching '90s movies. She hopes to run her first marathon and continue inspiring others through coaching and community involvement.
