The Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) Board of Regents has unanimously approved a three percent salary increase and extended the contract of Chancellor James Johnston through 2031. The decision was made after an annual performance review during the board’s regular meeting on December 12, 2025.
The board used a market analysis comparing presidential salaries at peer institutions in the Southwest to determine the adjustment, setting Johnston’s new base salary at $375,000.
"Dr. Johnston has exceeded the Board's expectations, and we continue to be impressed with his leadership and the direction that he has taken the University and the ENMU System," said ENMU Regent Lance Pyle. "We are looking forward to him breaking the ENMU enrollment record, continuing with successful fundraising goals, and implementing his other initiatives that will only strengthen and advance us."
Since taking office, Chancellor Johnston has overseen enrollment growth at ENMU’s Portales campus from 5,398 students in fall 2023 to 6,002 in fall 2025. He has also led capital projects such as renovations to Roosevelt Hall and construction of a new Student Academic Services building scheduled for completion in summer 2026.
Johnston established ENMU-Portales’ first division of Advancement, resulting in record fundraising. The ENMU Foundation raised over $24.7 million across the last three fiscal years under his leadership.
He is also leading regional economic development efforts by forming partnerships with community colleges and local K-12 schools as part of his One Eastern Initiative for the university system.
"I am grateful for the continued support of the Board of Regents and their confidence in me," Johnston said. "As I continue to work both on campus and in the region to grow the ENMU System, I am also grateful for the support and 'can-do' spirit of all those I work with."
For more information about this announcement, contact Shaun Banther, director of University Communication at [email protected] or by phone at 575.562.2032.
