LAS CRUCES — More than 300 educators and policy professionals from colleges and universities across New Mexico attended the third annual Higher Education Technical Summit, the only state-organized conference of its kind in the country.
Attendees engaged in forward-looking policy discussions on financial aid, national trends in state higher education funding and strategic campus capital investments. Presentations spanned academic policy, institutional planning and research, adult education and other emerging priorities shaping the future of higher education.
“Now in its third year, and hosted in Las Cruces for the first time, the summit featured an exceptionally invigorating series of panels,” said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. “Higher education in New Mexico has garnered incredible momentum over these past eight years, and events like this one provide tremendous encouragement that the upward trend will continue in the years to come.”
Guest speakers included New Mexico Lt. Gov. Howie Morales, state Sen. Bill Soules, House Speaker Javier Martinez, state Rep. Nathan Small, Tom Harnisch of the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association, Jennifer Torres of Complete College America and representatives of the University of New Mexico Basic Needs Project.
“Joining higher education leaders from across New Mexico at the 3rd Annual Technical Summit was an inspiring reminder of the powerful impact our colleges and universities have on communities in every corner of our state,” said Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales, Ph.D. From expanding access and affordability to strengthening workforce pathways, this collective effort reflects a growing, statewide commitment to student success and economic opportunity. With strong collaboration among institutions, policymakers and partners, and under Secretary Rodriguez’s leadership, New Mexico continues to make meaningful investments in higher education that are uplifting families, supporting local economies and building a more prosperous future for all.”
“I was thrilled to join higher education leaders from across New Mexico at the 3rd Annual Technical Summit this week,” said Dr. Tom Harnisch of the SHEEO. “The summit highlighted strong collaboration among institutions and state leaders to ensure every student has access to high-quality, affordable college opportunities that prepare them for workforce success. New Mexico is making tremendous strides in higher education, with bold investments and innovative policies that will drive broad-based economic growth and prosperity for decades to come.”
“College is more than a credential; it’s a pathway to purpose,” said Jennifer Torres of Complete College America. “It helps students discover who they are, what they value and how they can contribute to their communities and careers. When we center students in this work, we’re not just preparing them for jobs, we’re equipping them with the skills, confidence and sense of direction they need to lead meaningful, impactful lives.”
To learn more about the New Mexico Higher Education Department and the tuition-free college scholarships, visit HED.nm.gov for more information.